Kent R. Wallis (Utah, b. 1945)
Oil on canvas
30 x 40 in.
Kent R. Wallis, born on January 10, 1945, in Ogden, Utah, embarked on his artistic journey later in life, diverging from a successful career in business. After completing his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Business Administration from Utah State University in 1969, he ventured into the corporate world, working for the B.F. Goodrich Company in Akron, Ohio, for six years.
Despite professional success, Wallis grappled with an unfulfilled creative yearning. In 1975, he returned to a childhood passion—drawing and painting—to reignite his artistic spirit. His dedication intensified, leading him to relocate his family to Logan, Utah, where he opened an artist supply store, enabling him to devote himself entirely to painting.
Wallis's artistic style seamlessly marries romantic realism with impressionism, showcasing his innate talent and instinctive development as a self-taught artist. His paintings exude vibrant colors and evoke a sense of joy, capturing fleeting moments with spontaneity and depth.
Throughout his career, Wallis garnered recognition for his exceptional artistry, earning accolades such as First-place Oil in the Oregon Trail National Show (1983), Sweepstakes in the Oregon Trail National Show (1984), and Winner Best of Show at the San Jose Museum (1989), among others. His contributions to the art community were acknowledged through memberships in esteemed organizations like the Northern California Society of Plein Air Painters, the Society of Plein Air Artists of America, and the Society of American Impressionists.
Beyond his artistic accomplishments, Wallis's spirit shines through in his uplifting perspective and dedication to capturing life's beauty on canvas. Whether immersed in painting to the melodies of Vivaldi or sharing moments of joy with his loved ones, Wallis's artistry reflects his unwavering commitment to celebrating the best life has to offer.
