"If I could say it in words there would be no reason to paint." - Edward Hopper (1882-1967); American Realist painter

BIOGRAPHY

D.E. West’s unique artistic ability began with a simple smiley face doodle when he was three years old. Growing up with a father who was an excellent amateur photographer, West discovered that art was a natural talent and love. Winning numerous art competitions with his unique graphite drawings during middle school and high school, West’s illustration hung in the hallway of Congress in Washington, D.C. in the eleventh grade.

An Oklahoma City native, West lived in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Florida throughout his childhood. Eventually earning a bachelor’s degree in photographic arts from the University of Central Oklahoma, he was privileged to study with several experts, including Dr. Bob Palmer and David Kinder; he continues to be greatly influenced by their experience, wisdom, and approaches.

West, through his work, strives to be as distinctive as possible. Inspiration comes to him from art masters such as Ansel Adams, Vincent Van Gogh, Edward Hopper and Wayne Thiebaud. He incorporates the aspects of still life art into his design work, because of the intensity in lighting, interplay of colors and contrast, and impact of composition. Another area integrated in his work is his love for landscape/rural art, which offers natural beauty and earthy components. West also strives to have his work speak for itself, and aspires to have the passion and energy in each piece easily recognized.

Today, with a client list that spreads out over several states, and as a production artist for Hallmark Cards, Inc., West also is a freelance graphic designer. He has amassed an impressive list of awards and honors, including at least 15 design awards in advertising design competitions. His work has been displayed at the Photography Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City and the National Art Show in Chicago.

West, a firm believer in giving back to his community and sharing what he has in his life, has donated many of his works to charities, such as Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Garden City Community College Endowment Association, ArtsCenter on Main Gallery fundraising events, and local community fundraising events.

In addition to being the king of his BBQ grill at home, traveling, and collecting vintage cameras and hot rod cars, West makes his home in Overland Park, KS, with his wife and their two children.