Artists Inn ~ Gallery

Atrists Inn ~ Area Location

William S. Shields

"IMAGINARY THINGS, SHAPES, EMOTIONS AND COLORS BOUNCE AROUND IN MY HEAD SOMEHOW FINDING THEIR WAY ONTO THE CANVAS WHERE THEY COMPETE AMONG THEMSELVES TO ATTAIN A POSITION RELEVANT TO THEIR INDIVIDUAL IMPORTANCE TO THE DYNAMICS AND MOOD OF THE PAINTING"

1. The Great Fizzle,

4' X 4' oil on panel

ANONYMOUS

The preceding statement most aptly describes Bill's feelings towards painting. The wonderful creative and spiritual quest that serious artists aspire to. He had a successful career as a designer and illustrator in Houston, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, culminating in a 13-year stint in New York, illustrating for books and national publications. He has also been published in the United States and Europe as an architectural designer.

2. From Here to Infinity,

4' X 4' oil on panel

Bill's painting began with landscapes during a residency in Paris in the early 1980's, and lasted for several years. Shortly thereafter he chose to focus his energies toward the freedom and imagination expressed in gestural abstract painting.

3. Quiet Boundries,

4' X 6' oil on panel

Bill has had several one man shows at the Bridge Gallery in San Francisco, and is currently represented by the Museum of Modern Art, Fort Mason Center. Aside from painting, he had the pleasure of teaching illustration and fine art at the following institutions: San Francisco Art Institute, California College of Arts and Crafts, San Jose State University, The University of Syracuse MFA Program and a special long term relationship with the Academy of Art College, San Francisco.

4. Space,

4' X 4' oil on panel

As an artist, Bill felt that there can be no greater gift than to be able to share ones life work and vision, as a contribution to the society in which we live.

5. Travelling Through,