George Hallmark
2013 Artist
2013 Artwork Coming Soon
About the Artist
George Hallmark was voted the official Texas State Artist in 1988. His work is featured in Art of the West, Western Art Collector, Southwest Art, among many others. His work has been exhibited at the Prix de West Exhibition and Sale at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, the Salmagundi Club in New York, and the Eiteljorg Museum's Quest for the West Show and Sale in Indianapolis, where in 2010 he won the Artist of Distinction Award. His work was also featured in the West Select Show at the Phoenix Art Museum, where in 2011 he won the Silver Medal for oil painting. In early 2012 the Briscoe Museum in San Antonio purchased a major painting of his for their permanent collection.
Artist Questions
What artist inspires you? Why?
This question is like answering, "What food do you like best, or what color is your favorite?" I have been influenced by many, many artists. My two absolute favorites would have to be Joaquin Sorolla and John Singer Sargent. Just about anything either one of them ever painted was amazing.
How do you come up with an idea for a new piece of artwork?
My wife Lisa and I travel extensively and I am continuously taking photographs of interesting architectural subjects. When we return home we review the photos and begin the selection process. A building here, an old man there, add some burros from another village, etc. At the same time we are mulling over subjects we are also thinking about the story and coming up with a unique title. It all has to fit together.
Where is the most inspirational place you've visited lately?
On a recent drive through the winding mountain back roads of Colima state in Mexico, we came upon a small village and decided to tour a couple of streets. Upon rounding a corner, I noticed a huge tree at the end of the block with a small pig tied underneath. I had everyone wait in the vehicle as I slowly walked down the street taking photos. I soon realized that behind the tree was a beautiful sorrel, charro horse and quickly abandoned the pig and photographed the horse. The finished painting is in the 2013 Prix de West. You never know!
Past Artwork (Since 2012)
