DANIEL SMITH
Born 1954, in Mankato, Minnesota; lives in Bigfork, Montana
ONE OF AMERICA’S foremost wildlife artists, Daniel Smith enjoys wide acclaim for his depictions of the natural world. Born in Minnesota, he now resides in Montana where he is inspired by his surroundings. One of the most rewarding elements of his work is doing fieldwork, which is the genesis of all of his paintings. Smith is passionate about his subjects and travels frequently in search of artistic inspiration. His meticulous field research and insistence on directly observing the animals he paints are driven by a personal penchant to achieve greater authenticity.
Smith’s interest in art at first led him to pursue a career as an illustrator, but even then, he spent his evenings painting wildlife, his first love. After winning the 1987 Federal Duck Stamp competition, he abandoned illustration and has been painting wildlife ever since. He is noted for his use of muted lighting, soft colors and mist to enhance and exaggerate depth.
Because he feels indebted to the natural world that has been his sole inspiration, Smith uses his art to aid and endorse many conservation efforts. He has been chosen as artist of the year by several conservation organizations.
Gallery Representation
Settlers West Galleries, Tucson, Arizona
The Legacy Galleries, Scottsdale, Arizona and Santa Fe, New Mexico