Duane Brown

Hotshot, Oil Painting

2025

Artist Comments
A firefighter's helmet floats at the center of the composition. It strikes a compelling balance between realism and stylization, using its vivid orange background to create an immediate visual impact. The circular motifs add a sense of movement without overwhelming the central subject. The minimalistic approach evokes a visually engaging and thought-provoking image. Its color and form convey both homage and enigma.

About the Artist
Artist Duane Brown captures everyday life with a focus on intimate, often overlooked moments. Originally from Northern California and now based in New Mexico, Duane began as a photo-realist but found new energy in expressive painting after years of working as a caricature artist. “I found the freedom of improvisation in my brushstrokes to be a more rewarding way to express my vision,” shares Duane. His scenes often unfold instinctively, drawing references from live models, 3D software, personal photos, and even paused frames from old movies. Duane paints from a home studio, where he can easily respond to bursts of inspiration day or night. Outside of painting, he reads newspapers and periodicals aloud for the New Mexico Commission for the Blind—a role that adds unexpected meaning to the visual nature of his work.

Words that describe this painting: fireman, helmet, goggles, floating, circle, still life, contemporary, oil painting, orange

Hotshot
Duane Brown
Oil painting on stretched canvas
Finished black edges
Varnished and Ready to hang
One-of-a-kind
Signed on back
2025
20 in. h x 20 in. w x 1.5 in. d
2 lbs. 6 oz.