Meet Chris Rectenwald | Fine Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris Rectenwald and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chris, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. Both of my parents and my 2 sisters and I were all artists. It was fun being raised in an “artsy” family. We always took our art supplies on vacation. My mother painted on everything in our house. Front door, milk box, telephones, bathtub, and furniture. My father had a table in the back of the livingroom where he could carve and still be with the family. My parents were both totally supportive of my desire to go to art school, but said that I would have to get a scholarship. Because of this, I worked hard to keep good grades, and was on honor roll. I attended PNCA (Museum Art School at that time), studying in graphic design. After the first year I got a summer job working in an art department. I didn’t return to school, and never regretted it. I received all of my training on the job and loved it. I was a graphic designer for 37 years.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I mainly consider myself to be a portrait artist. I have spent years honing my skills, and am continually studying and practicing. Lately however, I have been spending more and more time painting landscapes and cityscapes. There are so many interesting scenes to paint right here in the city. I love to go plein air painting, both with groups, or by myself. Painting outside, and finishing in the studio teaches you how to really see. Everyone who paints should try painting outside. It brings its own set of challenges and rewards.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Portland is unique in that in just a few hours you can go to the beach, or the mountains, or the desert. The Oregon coast is a must see. The Columbia Gorge is also a must. The mighty Columbia River, with its many waterfalls, picnic, swimming, and camping areas, and easy hikes, is only a short drive. Portland has soooo many good restaurants, literally thousands! I recommend trying the food cart communities in the city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have my parents to thank for blessing me with the love for the gift of art. My father was a gifted wood carver and my mother, a fine artist. My parents collaborated on many projects. They were both my role models for making art a life focus, as well as examples of how to make a marriage work.

Website: www.chrisrectenwald.com

Instagram: chrisdoingartstuff

Facebook: Chris Rectenwald