Carl Bretzke

  • BIO

    Carl Bretzke is a contemporary realist oil painter who is known for his original compositional choices, realistic light effects and diversity in subject matter ranging from plein air landscapes to more complex city scenes often after dark.  The Washington Post once described his work as “simultaneously intimate and detached...The artist’s unadorned style recalls Edward Hopper and the Ashcan School.” Carl holds an MD degree from The University of Minnesota.  His undergraduate degree is from the University of Colorado where he also received a minor in Fine Art.    Carl currently lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota and has been actively involved in Plein Air competitions throughout the country since 2010 and a member of the Plein Air Painters of America since 2021. An extensive list of Carl’s national awards and exhibitions can be found on his website carlbretzke.com. Current gallery representation and upcoming events are also included on that site.

Little About Carl

What inspires your work?

I look for compositions that often combining beauty with the ordinary, trying to create a feeling of familiarity.

What is something unexpected about you that often surprises people?

I stress over getting things right in my paintings.  "It’s all fun and games until you mess up on perspective or value.”

What do you consider your most significant achievement as an artist?

I feel good about the success I’ve achieved in my plein air work.

How has your work evolved over time?

I used to dabble in looser impressionistic painting but now I’m comfortable trying to
achieve the degree of realism that I get.

Is there a particular medium or subject you're drawn to, and why?

I’m drawn to interesting light effects such as dusk and nocturne scenes.

What's the most challenging part of being an artist?

A challenging part of painting is the business of selling and showing art.  Lots of packing, shipping, bookkeeping etc.

Do you have a favorite piece you've created? Why does it stand out?

Favorite piece?  Not really but I definitely like some more than others.

Where were you born and where did you grow up?

Born and raised in Hutchinson, MN.  My wife and I have now lived in Minneapolis for the past 45 years.

Who are your artistic influences or mentors?

I received an art minor from Colorado University.  My primary painting teacher was Joe Paquet.  Many other teachers and influences along the way.

What advice would you give to emerging artists?

Advice to emerging artists…Definitely pursue art if that is one of your main motivations in life (but it’s a good idea to have a back up career plan if your goal is to make a living as an artist).

Carl's Art

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