Creativity often runs in the family. Renowned Evergreen artist Roger Ambrosier has certainly recognized this in his own clan. After observing his grandsons’ natural artistic talents elevate over the years, he is proud to showcase their artwork alongside his own this May at Center for the Arts Evergreen (CAE).
Roger works mostly in pastels, but has extended to other media over the years: watercolors, woodcuts, ceramics and sculptures, all of which display his versatility as an artist. The fields and landscapes of Missouri, which Roger explored as a child, are embedded in his artwork. The gentle glow and softness of his pieces reflect the kindhearted gentleman who painted them. Roger’s work has been awarded many accolades, the highest being Best In Show at several Pastel exhibitions such as Western Spirit, Mid-America National, and Colorado Pastel Society Mile High National. His work has been shown at the Nelson-Atkins Museum and the Albrecht-Kemper Museum in Missouri, the Sheldon Museum in Nebraska, and the Millicent Rogers Museum in Taos.
In addition to his prolific career as an artist, Roger inspired young creatives as an art teacher at West Jefferson Middle School for over 30 years. He retired from teaching over 20 years ago, but his passion for painting has not relented. Now, Roger is honored to have his grandsons’ work highlighted beside his own.
This multigenerational family of artists will be bringing a true array of artwork to the Center for the Arts exhibit, May 1 through 31. There will certainly be a little something for everyone to enjoy!
Dan
Dan Shearer, Roger’s youngest grandson, began taking his creativity seriously soon after he graduated from high school. As a fan of cartoon and pop art, Dan started experimenting with upcycling artwork found in thrift stores. He finds canvases and framed pieces that “speak to him” and adds his own eclectic spin. Sometimes friends and family gift him paintings to modify into his own masterpiece with acrylics or paint pens. Once a piece is completed, he will post a before and after photo to his social media to give credit to the original artist. His work is playful, colorful and unique, with a youthful edge.
Growing up watching his grandfather create inspired Dan to pursue art. “He definitely encouraged me and watching him reminded me that I had creativity somewhere inside of me, too,” he relays with a smile. He also grew up alongside his brother, Kayleb, who sketched constantly, inspiring him to explore his own branch of art.
Kayleb
Dan’s older brother, Kayleb, will bring an entirely different artistic style to the May exhibit at CAE. Since before he could remember, Kayleb was sketching and doodling. Always a pencil in hand to create on paper what danced in his mind. Also drawn to Pop and Fan Art, Kayleb’s sketchbooks are filled with detailed drawings of characters inspired by the Japanese art form, Anime. His whimsical interpretations alight the page with popular cartoon favorites as well. In addition to drawing, Kayleb designs and hand sews elaborate costumes for festivals and theater.
