SHIRLEY BALES FINE ART
Original Art and Giclee Prints of Colorado and Beyond
Let the things that surround you be meaningful—a daily reminder of where you have been, are now, and WILL be.
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Art for Life
Collect original art that brings you joy, sparks conversation, commemorates an important moment, place or time—art that may become a treasured heirloom. Live a more meaningful and sustainable life by supporting local artists, makers and small businesses.
Shirley Bales, artist
Hi there! I'm Shirley. I am a multi-generational painter. While I was practically born with a paintbrush in hand, I formally studied fine art under an accomplished forensic portrait artist and other notable illustrators in the 1990's. My favorite thing to do is paint outside. I learned most of my technical knowledge from the forerunners of the Classical Realism Movement, and paint with historical mediums, primarily in oil. My work resides in thousands of private collections nationwide, and I am so grateful. Now a resident of Colorado Springs, I hope someday soon to take the show on the road in my new RV. Please come along for the ride.
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Testimonials of my Collectors
In an Instant, Everything Changed
It was a sunny day when we made our way to the annual Plein Air Artists Colorado Paint Out in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. As we pulled up to our campsite after a long drive, tents and gear in tow, we arrived at our campsite to learn our fire pit was surrounded by nearly a foot of water. It was a confusing scenario, as the weather had been perfect on the drive in? In hindsight, it was an ominous nod to events to come. We decided to move our campsite to higher ground. An act that would eventually make us—the last tent standing. The next day, after an exhausting (yet glorious) day battling bugs and sun while painting outside—we settled into camp to prepare dinner in our brand new REI screen house. It was then that I noticed small clouds forming in the distance. I had a passing thought "maybe a storm is brewing?" Then without notice, the wind picked up to 60 miles per hour. We held on to the screen house for dear life as it nearly flew away with us along with it! Then the stinging rain started . . . We were completely exposed to the elements and at nature's mercy. This battle persisted for over half an hour, and at the end of it, we were the last tent standing. Wet and exhausted, that was the day I decided to buy an RV . . .
Art for Life Blog
American Dreams on the Prairie
As we pulled into John Martin State Park, RV in tow, there was an eerie glow in the air. I felt a heaviness caused by more than smoke and decimation from uncontrolled wildfires. There was a mix of desperation, and a lack of direction that permeated the campground full of an eclectic mix of state of the art vans, weekend warriors, and the displaced with...
My Painting Process
Using primarily 19th century mediums and materials from esteemed boutique color makers—I have spent over 20 years developing my unique oil painting process. Blending past knowledge with present day innovation, my work is a blend of classical methodology, impressionist palette and color theory, integrated into a modern day sensibility in both objective and non-objective forms. I primarily paint subjects that "resonate with me, connect me...
Modern Impressionism
Today there is a Modern Impressionist revival. Art movements are often a response—a rejection of environmental, social, and political forces—and the collective need to express and manifest a new perspective. It is this need that Modern Impressionism answers. We can reinvent our world, with art that stands for something good. French Impressionism was preoccupied with the immediate, the "fleeting moment," and depicting light. Modern Impressionism...
2nd Annual Gratitude Exhibit at Kreuser Gallery
I am excited to take part in the 2nd Annual “Gratitude” exhibit next month at Kreuser Gallery featuring over 150 local artists! I have gratitude for everyone that has helped me develop as an artist over this past year. This exposure has lead me in new and exciting directions. I have been quiet lately while I launch my new website and line of home...