Kevin Van Wicklin - Ernesto

As an artist, Kevin Ernesto VanWicklin (Ernesto) enjoys exploring mixed media techniques to reflect his painterly intent. From ancient encaustic to contemporary watercolor, Ernesto chooses media that can bring innovative expressions to his paintings, the subjects of which may range from nature to portraits.

An ardent advocate of the environment since childhood and greatly influenced by John Muir and others, Ernesto has chosen to combine his love for nature and his passion for painting in a series of works depicting wildlife. These images come from first-hand experiences as an avid bird watcher, a farmer, a sailor, and from work on numerous conservation projects. Recent works have been directed to the wider landscape.

In his portraiture, the artist draws from vintage Pop and cultural icons, such as Marilyn and the great Satchmo. Ernesto pulls from his own musicianship and early fascination with jazz and the blues to give life and depth to his portrayals of the greats.

Kevin Ernesto VanWicklin resides in New Mexico where he paints, plays music, and teaches art at the University of New Mexico Continuing Education. He also teaches art workshops for Celebrity Cruises. The artist studied at Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, and the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, among others including Ixbalanque, Copan Ruinas, Honduras C.A.

Selected exhibitions include:
Greenfield Village Country Fair - Dearborn, MI
O’Keefe Gallery - Whitefish, MT
Northwest Gallery of Fine Woodworking - Seattle, WA
FAMA - Tucson, AZ
Fisher Gallery - Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque Museum - Albuquerque, NM
Jemez Art Fair - Jemez Springs, NM
Zane/Bennett Contemporary Art - Santa Fe, NM
Rive Gauche Art Galleries - Scottsdale, AZ
Arts Alliance - Albuquerque, NM
Michael Wigley Gallery - Santa Fe, NM
Encaustic Art Institute - Cerrillos, NM
Open Space Gallery - Albuquerque, NM
Randall Davey Audubon Center – Santa Fe, NM




Grand Canyon


Trumpeteer Swan


Burrowing Owl


Marilyn


Hooded Oriole

Pacific Whale