Growing up, Chris Holt was always fascinated by the visual world. Whether at the beach, in the swimming pool, wandering through a flower shop or hiking Northwest trails, he would find himself transfixed by the interplay of light, color, texture and dimension all around him.

Ever since, he has tried to understand and capture in his work the essential feelings that these visions spark within him. Why is a particular scene calling to him? Having the patience to sit with this question until clarity emerges is just as important for him as knowing how to mix and apply pigments to canvas.

Introspection leads to sketching, and then to thumbnail compositions and rough studies. During this process, he looks for visual ways to support and enhance the emotional narrative. By simplifying the composition into key shapes, values, textures and colors, he attempts to maintain the integrity of both the composition and the feelings he wants to convey. Only when a painting truly communicates the emotion, beauty and essence of its subject—both for himself and his audience—does he consider it a success.