We love to hear from our featured artists that they're doing well (which, according to most artists' internal barometers, means that they're painting like crazy and loving it) and so it's with particular satisfaction that we get to share this kind of news with you:

If you've read the February 2007 issue of the magazine (one of my favorite covers, by the way) you've seen Robert Highsmith's fine southwest- and South Carolina-inspired watercolor landscapes. Now Highsmith is exploring two new dual interests: trains and bison. Marigold Arts has announced a solo show, Robert Highsmith: Into the West (June 6th through July 9th), featuring paintings done at Chama, one of New Mexico’s most scenic venues, and at Ted Turner's ranch near Santa Fe. Sounds tantalizing, eh? From the press release:

Highsmith’s paintings make strong, simple statements that capture the light and landscapes of the Southwest, evincing equal parts technical virtuosity and heart. He paints primarily landscapes, occasionally focusing on a cow or architectural structure. Highsmith’s paintings reveal a softness of light, shadow, and brush that can only be accomplished with the immediacy of watercolor, complimented by the stark contrasts that lend the work its photorealism.  

If this doesn't satisfy your craving for Highsmith's work, pick up the June issue of the magazine (on newsstands April 22, 2008). Highsmith is one of several artists who share their experiences in a Special Report on the fine art of selling your own fine art.

Train at Antonio (watercolor on paper, 22x30) by Robert Highsmith