Shane is a self-taught artist based in Nashville, Tennessee, whose work explores the emotions of dreams, distant memories, and silent emotions left unexpressed. Through a contemporary approach, Shane depicts the landscapes of the mind in a way to allow the viewer to reflect on their own experiences.

Read on to learn a bit more about Shane and his process...

Q: You work with a very specific color palette of predominantly warm and cool neutrals. How did you develop your palette and define the color relationships in your work? 

A: My palette developed organically over time as I explored the subtleties of atmosphere and light in nature. I often mix my colors from limited pigments, which helps maintain cohesion. For example, from a distance, a lot of my skies may appear a wall of grey, but upon closer examination there’s subtle shifts in colors. I like the dichotomy of simplicity and depth.

Q: Do you have a favorite place or places that you reference in your work? Where do you most enjoy spending time outdoors?

A: A majority of my work is painting from my imagination. I enjoy traveling to refresh the mind’s eye, but the places in my paintings are dreamscapes. I feel most refreshed when visiting wide open spaces. 

Q: Can you describe your painting process? Do you have a favorite painting tool or brush?

A: Painting is a form of meditation for me—an intuitive process with no end place in mind. I try not to overthink any part of the process. An important aspect is slowing down and decluttering my mind before a painting session. Reading a book helps a lot with that. 

Q: What has been challenging for you in developing your work? What advice would you give to other painters facing the same struggles in the studio?

A: A challenge I’ve faced is thinking, “is this the correct?” The painting technique, the composition, colors, whatever it may be. What is correct though? I think part of being an artist is testing boundaries, defining new lines, and telling your own story. My advice to other painters is don’t be afraid to explore. 

Q: Where do you see your work going in the future? 

A: I foresee myself exploring the realm between dreams and memories further–Blending the lines between what is reality and what is not. Art, for me, is an ongoing journey, and I’m excited to see how it continues to evolve.