Kris Six
Artist Story: Kris Six
Being born into the world of art just appeared natural. As a young boy, he would spend his days watching his mother in her studio working on paintings. Kris always spend his time there trying to draw the images she would be creating on the canvass.“It was the smells of the oil paints and turpentine that was the intoxicating drug that lured me into the world of Art. I couldn’t get enough of it.” His Mother was the recognized portrait painter, Nita Six. It was these early years spent with her that would set in motion a passion for painting that would never grow old.
At the age of 12 sadly Kris’s Mother passed away, and leaving a void in his soul. But not for long though. For his Father passed on to Kris his Mother’s paints, brushes, and easel; encouraging Kris to make use of them as an honor for his Mother’s memory. It was as a fish to water..
“…..Once I felt and experienced what the brushes and paint could do I was hooked.” Only receiving a few classes from a local artist, Kris soon found himself getting more out of being a self-taught artist. This proved to be a good move for him as he soon found himself receiving awards with local art competitions. And developing his unique style of painting that sets him apart today.
At 13 Kris sold his first painting. “A family friend was watching me one day at the easel and stated he would offer me $35.00 for it.” “At 13 and in 1974 I was rich!” It was another turning point for him as he was amazed that not only did he love painting, he also was amazed that people, “Actually wanted to give me money for what I was doing.”
In 1982, Kris was in his first group showing in Libby Montana. Upon arriving with 40 pieces and not sure what his first show would bring. He was surprised to leave after the 3-day show having sold all 40 pieces. And picking up the attention of a prominent Gallery who wanted to represent him.
Over the last 32 years Kris has seen all the changes that have come to the art world. But has been determined to stay the course he chose from his earliest years of painting. His style of painting captures the essence of natures light in its purest form. “It is my never ending quest to take that which nature has given us and capture it on the canvass.”
Kris speaks about his art that transferred and changed to a different level of creativity by the influence of his wife and his best friend Samaa, who came into his life 5 years ago. “…. Her influence on my inspiration towards my art is a major factor in many ways.”……. “I have to say what the viewer see’s now is the result of this presence in my life..” We can only say thank you Samaa for your touch on Kris’s soul.
For those of us who have come to know and love the art of K. Six, we can only expect to see many more years of great creations as he continues to develop and hone his gifted talents.