* 6324 N.W. 35th Terrace
* Gainesville, Florida
* (352)384-9612
nandwbell@cox.net
Biography
Wilson C. Bell is a native of Alachua County and a fourth generation native Floridian. As a UF undergraduate, he
majored in Architecture and Fine Arts and received certification in graphic design. After earning a BAE and MAE
from the University of Florida, he taught in public schools, adult education and spent thirty plus years as an
adult programs administrator. While working fulltime, he continued experimenting with drawing, black and white
photography and then digital photographs. Upon retirement from state government, in 2000, he and his wife returned
to Gainesville. Deciding to focus on painting, he re-energized his art by studying with local artists Linda Pence
and Maggie Ruiz. He recently completed an intensive workshop under noted acrylic artist William Hook in Taos, New
Mexico.
Artist Statement
I am interested in capturing the energy and mood of a scene or composition. My landscapes and still lifes tend to
have structural elements that emanate from my early architectural studies. My style and compositions are influenced
by Cezanne because of his sculptural creation of space and volume that emit energy. The strong brush strokes and
bright colors of the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist period are evident in my work. I love the color
sophistication of Matisse.
My intent is to convey the joy or serenity of a place or thing with vibrant colors, contrast and brush strokes.
However, I want the painting to suggest a sense of mystery or intrigue by wondering what is behind the courtyard
gate or what is around the next bend in the road. The focus on the spiritual energy of a place springs from a recent
trip my wife and I took that included visiting as many of the “Top Ten Most Spiritual Places in America” that we could. This experience was both profound and revitalizing.
Acrylic on canvas is the medium I have found most compatible for me.
Gallery of Images