Alex Slingenberg

My passion for art and wildlife in particular has come from many sources and influences.

It is an on going journey of self discovery, a joyful learning process that fires and feeds my soul, and that which I hope to share with others.

Wildlife artists such as Robert Bateman, Carl Brander and Bev Doolittle are a constant inspiration to me; these artists that have inspired so many through their realistic detailed art and their amazing portrayal of wildlife that captures the hearts of the viewers, have influenced my growth and development as a wildlife, western and portrait artist.

They have made me see wildlife through their eyes, inspiring and to a certain degree influencing my own art style of realism.

This not only helped develop my technique and style but also was one of the major motivations to try out new techniques of painting on unusual mediums such as porcelain, silk and leather, to capture my chosen subjects. Honing my skills of realistic painting, add to that nature herself that is a constant inspiration, passion and delight that reaches into my heart and soul setting it on fire. Striving on perfecting those skills, and by sharing with others not only that passion but to become aware of nature with all its wonders. To help preserve its awesome majestic beauty, educate and conserve that wildlife and their natural habitats so that we may all keep enjoying it for our own and future generations.

Eyes (the windows into the soul and spirit, be it animal or human) are not only so special to me; they have become my passion and joy, from which springs my specialty. Those eyes that reach in and touch your heart, feeding your soul with their fierce wild untamed beauty or their gentle gaze and nature, that captures the viewer never more to let you go. That is the driving force that I have attempted to achieve and capture in all my paintings.

I also want to take the opportunity to thank all those amazing teachers, mentors, fellow artists that have influenced, guided, and inspired me for sharing their knowledge, art, skills and insight that enabled me to develop and grow as an artist and has enriched my life in so many ways and will always inspire me to keep growing and developing as an artist.

This is art as I see it: hand painted on leather and porcelain, the canvases of choice. Hope you enjoy this developing journey in art.

Nighthawk