In Memory of Chris Van Winkle
Thank you to the Chris Van Winkle estate and Jennifer Zapp for the donation of these items.
Chris Van Winkle discovered watercolor in the 70's, studying with Robert Hallett at Citrus College in Glendora. He admired Hallett's approach to the watercolor media: learn all the basic skills and techniques and then develop your own style and interpretation. On his own webpage, Chris stated: "All art is abstract. The minute we use line, we are abstracting. Some art is more realistic, some more non-objective, but all art must be poetic."
Chris retired from his commercial art business when he reached 62 and then devoted all his time to watercolor painting, instruction, conducting workshops and leading painting tours around the globe. Following in the footsteps of his mentor Hallett, he taught at Citrus College for over 30 years. He helped many local artists start on their path towards painting watercolor.
He enjoyed studying with nationally recognized watercolor artists Milford Zornes and Henry Fukuhara, both of whom had a profound influence on Chris' work. He developed a close friendship with talented watercolor artist Tom Fong, who was the watercolor instructor at Mount San Antonio College when Chris was teaching at Citrus. Over the years, the two developed what is best described as the first watercolor standup comedy routine to the delight of other artists.
Chris served as president of the National Watercolor Society from 2005 through 2007. During that time he undertook the task of fund raising and converting the warehouse in San Pedro into the NWS Gallery. With the help of many others, the goal was achieved. The gallery stands as a testament to his leadership and perseverance.
Chris retired from his commercial art business when he reached 62 and then devoted all his time to watercolor painting, instruction, conducting workshops and leading painting tours around the globe. Following in the footsteps of his mentor Hallett, he taught at Citrus College for over 30 years. He helped many local artists start on their path towards painting watercolor.
He enjoyed studying with nationally recognized watercolor artists Milford Zornes and Henry Fukuhara, both of whom had a profound influence on Chris' work. He developed a close friendship with talented watercolor artist Tom Fong, who was the watercolor instructor at Mount San Antonio College when Chris was teaching at Citrus. Over the years, the two developed what is best described as the first watercolor standup comedy routine to the delight of other artists.
Chris served as president of the National Watercolor Society from 2005 through 2007. During that time he undertook the task of fund raising and converting the warehouse in San Pedro into the NWS Gallery. With the help of many others, the goal was achieved. The gallery stands as a testament to his leadership and perseverance.
Items available in the auction
Painting - Beach Town Balboa CAA 20" x 13" painting of a scene from Balboa Ca titled Beach Town. Likely from one of his workshops there. This piece is not matted or framed. Starting bid $100. Donated by Jennifer Zapp, a grateful former student of Chris.
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Workshop Notebook - Watercolor
This amazing item is a 18" x 24" notebook of material that Chris Van Winkle used to teach watercolor painting classes and workshops. Beautiful examples of various watercolor basics, compositions and several watercolor paintings. Starting bid $150. Donated by the estate of Chris Van Winkle?
