Lorenzo Chavez

"A Fragile Beauty, " Southwestern Landscape Oil Painting

2024

Lorenzo Chavez (b. 1959) creates oil and pastel paintings that celebrate the distinctive landscapes of the American West, particularly Colorado and his native New Mexico. His work carries forward the representational traditions of American landscape painting while expressing his personal connection to the region, where his family has resided since the mid-1600s. After graduating with honors from the Colorado Institute of Art in 1983, Chavez established himself as both a painter and educator. His artistic approach emphasizes plein air practice—painting directly from nature to capture the Southwest's dramatic skies, native vegetation, and unique light conditions. This method allows him to convey not just visual elements but the emotional experience of these environments. Currently based in Parker, Colorado, Chavez travels extensively throughout the West gathering inspiration for his work. He holds signature memberships in prestigious organizations including the California Art Club and American Impressionist Society. His paintings have been featured in numerous publications and are represented by select galleries across the United States including Abend Gallery.