Dave Santillanes
Obras en Exposición
State University with a degree in Graphic Design. But he points to his first plein air excursions
as the true beginning of his development as a painter where direct observation allowed
for a more precise rendering of color, light and atmosphere. And although studying the
physical aspects of nature is important, it isn’t the only reason Dave paints outdoors. He
says, “the sensory experience of being there is equally important. There’s no better way to
get to really know a place than to sit for a couple of hours and contemplate it while painting.
This intense observation brings a spiritual intimacy with the scene that can’t be achieved in
mere passing and allows me to “speak” with complete sincerity in each painting.”
Dave’s passion for painting has led to a number of recent awards including the Grand Prize
at the 9th Annual Plein Air Salon Competition in 2020, the Aritst’s Choice Award at the
2020 Quest for the West Show at the Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis and First Place in the
Landscape Category at the 12th annual International ARC Salon. He’s also won numerous
awards for his plein air work and has been featured in Plein Air Magazine, Art of the West
Magazine and Southwest Art Magazine.
