Bio
Edgar Smith spent his early years in California, Munster (Germany), and Grand Rapids, Michigan. Although he has lived most of his adult life in Montana—which he fondly considers home—he currently resides in Wenatchee, Washington with his family. Smith pursued his studies in Sculpture at Ohio University and later in Art History at the University of Montana. Smith has taught Studio Art and Art History at several institutions, including the University of Montana, Montana State University, Flathead Valley Community College, and South Puget Sound Community College. Smith's work has been recognized by bands like Pearl Jam and Deaf Charlie, who have featured his artwork on their album covers. Recent exhibitions include a group exhibit at Wenatchee Valley Community College entitled Uncertain Nature and another group exhibit with the Saltmine collective in Missoula, Montana.
Artist Statement
My recent work travels on two paths, primarily centered around oil painting. First, for the past 15 years, I have explored landscapes of the American West, with a particular focus on scenes of extractive industries like mining and logging. My aim is to portray the complicated relationship these industries have with the land and water. I often concentrate on specific segments of these landscapes, emphasizing their details using traditional observational painting techniques. Second, I have long been interested in naïve art. This form yields unexpected results through the combination of observation and imagination. Using this approach, I tackle political and social issues and the iconic figures associated with them.
