Rhythmic Brushwork

Figurative artist Daniel Bilmes discusses texture, color, narrative and more

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SCOTTSDALE ARTISTS’ SCHOOL: Tell us about your artistic training.

DANIEL BILMES: At the age of 8, I began studying art with my father, Semyon Bilmes, who had a small illustration school in southern Oregon. My father comes from a strong academic background. He was educated in the Soviet Art academies, before immigrating to the United States and attending Parsons in New York City. There he met my mother, Alla Bilmes. I was immersed in art and art education from a very early age, which was a key foundation for my artistic career.

SAS: What is the difference between creating art and teaching art?

DB: They go hand in hand. I grew up in an art school; it was the family business. I learned so much from teaching especially since I started at a young age. You quickly discover the gaps in your understanding when you must instruct someone else. This stuck with me. I don’t have a lot of time to teach these days, but I think it’s important.

SAS: You have such a distinct color palette. Can you tell us a little bit about this?