Ray's art is easily enjoyed and understood as he depicts his subject matter in a realistic, traditional style. Often his scenes are nostalgic and familiar. However, beneath those first impressions lie a complexity of emotions that often cannot be put in words. Viewers are often drawn back to a serenity and peacefulness that perhaps comes from the personality of the artist himself.
Although retired now, Ray spent his vocational life as a United Methodist clergy pastoring churches, teaching in higher education and as a denominational administrator. During those years he experienced the yearnings of people for something beyond themselves--some essence, some purity or beauty, or even divinity--which could elevate them to life better than they were experiencing. He spent over a half century sharing his Christian faith through spoken and written means. Foundational in his faith is the conviction that no matter what one's faith may be, that faith should produce a serenity and peace that often cannot be explained in words, only symbols or images. His artwork tries to convey that peace and serenity.
Largely self-taught, Ray has drawn and painted all his life. He grew up in the northern Shenandoah Valley in Martinsburg, West Virginia where he loved the outdoors especially the mountains and rivers of that area. In his early years, hunting, fishing, hiking, photography and sports occupied his time. No doubt his desire to interpret nature as an artist was born in those early years.
Since 1978 he has specialized in watercolors and acrylic painting. While he was an undergraduate student, he took a number of courses in drawing and painting and has taken community college classes and professional workshops in watercolors throughout the years. He has won first place in regional art league shows and he has exhibited in art shows as his schedule allowed since 1979. His artwork is displayed in homes and offices throughout the eastern United States and is currently only available from this website, his website (www.pointharborart.com) and directly from his studio in Point Harbor, N.C.
Raymond Edmonds joined Pixels.com Licensing on January 4th, 2011.
