Shinkaruk feels that his “eyes, observations and patience were my teacher” and that “the development of my analytical viewing is what proved to be, and remains, my strongest tool as a painter.”

Carl Joseph Shinkaruk wouldn’t label himself as a painter in the Western genre, although in the last few years his work has focused largely on western images. He feels that this is such a romantic period in people’s minds and believes that everyone has a little bit of ‘cowboy’ in them. He feels that with the popular resurgence of Western art over the past few years, and the early influence of this era on his life, this has become the natural path for him to be going down at this time in his career.

Coming from a large and loving family, the cherished values of life and friendship were deeply instilled in Shinkaruk and have proven to be an important influence throughout this prolific artist’s career, as witnessed in his diverse choice of subjects. He recalls fondly that his childhood home was always the gathering place for grand social events and his friends were warmly “welcomed as siblings” in his home. Shinkaruk believes that it is this “constant atmosphere of humanity which had such a strong bearing and ultimately molded my interest in becoming, primarily, a figurative painter. Although I appreciate most types of art, my greatest admiration has been for people who paint people”, he says, “I had experienced international exposure very early in my career, my work being picked up by the prestigious Metropolitan Gallery in Hawaii and Japan. It was there that my work was displayed with the likes of Norman Rockwell and Salvador Dali. I was humbled and greatly honored. I have tried to develop and remain true to my own style, however, I observe with a hungry eye the mastery of great painters.”

The magical realism of Carl Joseph Shinkaruk’s work continues to attract collectors worldwide and the use of his powerful images commercially is thriving.

“Through my paintings I strive with a keen eye and an honest brush, to present the frailty, beauty and strength that I observe in my subjects.”

The artist, Carl Joseph Shinkaruk, invites you to enjoy and share in the labors of his love.

November, 2005

Copyright, Carl Shinkaruk

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