HAROLD WALKUP

Harold Walkup layers bright colors and various mediums to create unique pieces that "break the rules" of conventional painting methods. Watch as Harold shares a bit of his history and his process. Stop by DragonFire to see more of Harold's artwork.

ARTIST STATEMENT

Harold Walkup has been painting for as long as he can remember. From pastels at 10, to “Paint by Numbers” at 12. Harold grew up in a small town in Texas, and there were no art classes available in school or art teachers to teach. So his first real class on art was when he arrived at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. Even there, few choices were available, so he signed up for “Advertising Art and Design” through the Architecture Department.

Harold said, “The Architecture Department was just a lucky choice, as it was there that I was introduced to the technical side of perspective, shadows and design. Those classes have always made my paintings better when it comes to shape, color and a feeling of distance in the painting itself.”

Harold says he enjoys painting quickly to get the main idea on the canvas or board. Then the layers and layers of acrylic gradually build up a sense of depth and texture as he takes time to “get it right”. Using only the highest quality paint and mediums, Harold wants to be sure his work will last for generations.

Harold’s work has been featured in many books and magazines, and have included both watercolor and acrylics. His book (with a tongue-in-cheek title) “How to Enter Shows, Win Awards and Become Famous” is now being updated for a 2nd edition. Harold has signature status in 4 watercolor societies and a recent work has been included in the 156th International Exhibition of the American Watercolor Society in New York.

“This is an exciting time for me and I look forward to what comes next.”