Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States
Over the past 23 years Alan Shuptrine has emerged as a leading practitioner in the centuries-old art of carving and water gilding fine frames, wood carving, sgraffito etching, watercolor paintings, antique restorations, objects d'art, and paintings and decorative arts in several other mediums. Alan is most sought after for his mastery in designing one-of-a-kind unique art frames, antique restorations, and for his fine realistic watercolors. Through his companies, Gold Leaf Designs & Gallery and Shuptrine Fine Art, he and his wife, Bonny, have worked with numerous museums, galleries, private art collectors, and artists nationwide. Alan’s desire to pursue a career in decorative arts grew out of his natural inclination and influence of his father, the late Hubert Shuptrine, a nationally recognized watercolor realist.

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Influences

Art has shaped my life in so many wonderful ways, especially realism. The paintings I remember as a child were those of my father's, and the little marine scene he painted called Fishermen's Nets left a lasting impression on me; and, it's probably responsible for my natural love of water, and fishing. I would see it each night before I turned out the lights in my bedroom, and again in the morning. Other images that have shaped my life in a positive way have been the works of Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, Thomas Eakins, Norman Rockwell, Edward Hopper, Andrew Wyeth, Jamie Wyeth, and Stephen Scott Young, and of course too many others to mention. I appreciate the visual experience of an artist's craftsmanship, and I hope that the Classical traditions of art survive throughout this very modern and contemporary art world.

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi Alan,

What a wonderful site! I was wondering, do you search for imagery of specific subject matter, or do you just paint what you see that moves you?

When is your next show in the Southeast?

Thanks!
Doug G.

Anonymous said...

Alan, I knew your father for twenty years and appreciated your comments about how he has influenced your life. He was an exceptional artist and you are definitely his son. You can tell how magnificant your works speak and tell a story, just as he did. It is amazing for me to see how you two are similar, yet, how you have become your own identity. I have enjoyed our relationship and know you will only continue to shine in his eyes. You were his bright light, as his other children. I know he wished he had spent more time with each of you kids. Please continue his journey through your paintings. They are just as magnificiant, maybe more. I know your wife is very proud!
Jean

Dennis said...

Alan, I love your comments about realism and art. It is so true and it is nice to know someone who will speak the truth about all.
Can you tell me what inspires you or has inspired you to also create a frame for your masterpieces? You told me it was from long ago that the artist also designed the frame? How long have you been doing this? We might have to start calling you the Renaissance Man.
All our best,
Dennis and Jules

Anonymous said...

Alan, Your art is that rare breed that speaks to the eye and also the heart. I once heard the longest line in the world is between the head and the heart. Your art makes that line very short for me. I love looking for the crosses, knowing they are always there, just like in life. I like the hidden comfort. The soothing balm resonates. And your art resonates in your laughter and the sweet way you talk to all around you and make us feel blessed to call you friend. merrile

Anonymous said...

It is so refreshing to see a young artist painting in this style - truly and truthfully capturing the beauty of the world around him, without feeling as if he needs to be so "out there" and "cutting edge" simply to make people notice his work ... this artist can stand on his own, and I look forward to seeing how his work evolves over the coming years.

Anonymous said...

Hi Alan,

I recently saw on Ask Art that you were selected for membership to the Salmagundi Club! What a tremendous honor and one you so richly deserve! Congratulations and I look forward to seeing new works by you.

Christopher

Anonymous said...

Alan,
I extend my congratulations to you for being chosen as finalist in the 2008 Water Color competition.
It was a very pleasant surprise to see the listed name "Shuptrine". "I wonder if he is related to Hubert Shuptrine?" I said to myself.
I, too, have very fond memories of Highlands, NC, and traveling with my grandfather, Mr. H. E. Mays, to deliver mail and railway express packages from Walhalla, SC,(where I grew up) to all the people along the way to Highlands. I remember well, renting ice skates at Steve Potts' Grocery Store, and the square dances at Helen's Barn.
Many years ago, it was my privilege to meet your dad, Hubert, via introduction by my Granddad Mays. His work is truly unique, and your piece "White Easter" carries the same high quality.

Kindest regards,
Bill H.