A Conversation with Painter Chris Morel

In advance of his upcoming exhibition, A Lifetime of Learning: Two Artistic Journeys, we spoke with acclaimed Taos-based painter Chris Morel. He graciously gives us insights into his process, artistic background, and the guiding principles that have led to his successful career.

Chris Morel painting onsite at the Redlands Conservancy

You’ve been an artist most of your life. What would you say was your first introduction to art?

As far back as I was able to hold a pencil or crayon, I’ve been rendering figures and landscape images. Paper and pencil readily supplied by my parents helped tremendously, of course.

September Chamisa, oil on canvas, 22 x 28 in.

Did you always know you wanted to pursue art as a career? If so, who most encouraged you growing up?

I was torn between pursuing a career in art or music. They both were something I naturally defaulted to as an innate skill or interest. But I’ll give my sweet mother credit for noticing my strengths and encouraging me in the direction of fine art.

You spent many years in creative careers before becoming a full-time artist. What lessons did you glean from these different roles that helped you become the artist you are today?

Being reliable, honest, accountable and disciplined in any number of roles in your life will prepare you to take on any career…including, of course, art. Most importantly, supporting a family solely from the sale of paintings was a great motivator and teacher. Although it’s somewhat cliché, it’s something I believe: Failure could not be considered an option in the pursuit of my career. The work must alway continue to improve. It has also been important to try to recognize opportunities and take advantage of them when they’re presented to me.

High Country, oil on board, 8 x 10 ¼ in.

How would you describe your artistic style?

I’d say “Traditional Landscape Painting” would probably describe it.

When choosing a location to paint, what are you looking for? What calls out to you?

Every painter responds uniquely to a certain type of subject matter or motif. In landscape paintings, a sense of drama, scale, light effect, atmospheric effect, personal relationship and/or connection to a subject are all reasons I’ll decide to paint a scene.

Rio Grande Gold, oil on board, 9 x 12 in.

How does plein air fit into your process?

Plein Air or On Location Field painting is essential in learning to paint. All of your basic skills in becoming a proficient landscape painter are learned outside.

Fall Canyon, oil on canvas, 11 x 14 in.

What’s been your proudest moment as an artist?

There is no “one” proudest moment. The whole process of learning, creating, and living a life that I chose is the greatest gift I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy.

You’re part of an upcoming exhibition called A Lifetime of Learning: Two Artistic Journeys. What are you most excited about leading up to the show?

Having all the work completed and delivered is a great feeling. I love working with the Matteucci staff at the openings. It’s such a great organization and family. I’m also very excited to be paired with such a wonderful sculptor in Ed Smida. His unique and impressionistic style in sculpture is very attractive to me.

Garden Angel, oil on canvas, 20 x 24 in.

A Lifetime of Learning: Two Artistic Journeys will open at Nedra Matteucci Galleries in Santa Fe June 22 and run through July 12, 2024. Learn more about Chris and view more of his works here.

To inquire about the works seen here, please call (505) 982-4631 or email inquiry@matteucci.com.