Stuart Roper
Born in North Carolina, I embarked on my artistic journey in the mid-1970s when I relocated to Manhattan to attend the renowned Art Students League of New York. Under the guidance of artists Thomas Fogarty and John Howard Sanden, I delved into the realms of anatomy, figure drawing, and the intricate art of figure painting and portraiture.
In 1980, my path led me to St. Simons Island, Georgia, where I resided for a year before making Atlanta my home. Over the next decade, I honed my skills and undertook a diverse range of private and corporate commissions. Additionally, I had the privilege of showcasing my work in numerous solo and group exhibitions.
A transformative chapter in my life unfolded in the fall of 1991 when I embarked on a major move to the picturesque village of Pressagny l'Orgueilleux, nestled in the beautiful landscapes of Normandy, just west of Paris. During this time, I resided in the charming gate house at Château de la Madeleine, mere minutes away from the birthplace of Impressionism in Giverny and the residence of Claude Monet. Inspired by the artistic legacy of this region, my brushstrokes were infused with the essence of Impressionism, a style that has come to define my artistic expression.
In 1993, the allure of Provence, in southern French, led me to the idyllic hilltop village of Fayence, where I spent the next five years immersed in my craft. From the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy and Corsica to the familiar embrace of Normandy, my artistic journey took me far and wide. Captivated by the interplay of light, I explored the intricacies of a limited color palette, channeling its power into my work.
In 1998, I returned to the United States, finding solace and inspiration in the vibrant artistic community of Asheville, North Carolina. Here, I had the privilege of working on noteworthy commissions, such as recreating the original 1920s finials adorning the top of the Grove Arcade Public Market and contributing to the development of "Grove's Vision," a captivating station on the city's historical Urban Trail, in collaboration with the City Parks and Recreation Department.
After more than a decade of painting and exploring the captivating landscapes of North Central Texas, I stumbled upon an historic old farmhouse in Palo Pinto. It was a serendipitous encounter that spoke to my artistic soul, prompting me to embrace the open spaces, untamed wilderness, and expansive skies that would continue to inspire my work for years to come.
Join me on this extraordinary journey as I navigate the world through my brushstrokes, capturing the essence of nature, light, and the timeless beauty that surrounds us.