Artist Discusses His Career and Creative Approach in "The Center's Studio Podcast"
Renowned painter Walter Rane has spent decades shaping the visual language of faith for Latter-day Saints around the world. His work has appeared in the BYU Museum of Art and other buildings along with temples, chapels and homes. His work often captures moments of scripture and belief with striking realism and depth. In a recent episode of The Center for Latter-day Saint Arts podcast, Rane reflected on his life, career and the spiritual power of art in conversation with host Glen Nelson.
“I never remember a time when I didn’t want to be an artist,” Rane said. “When I was in kindergarten, my teacher sent a letter home that said, ‘Encourage Walter in art.’ My parents always gave me encouragement and opportunities. I was an easy mark for birthday presents — I got art books and art supplies. Art was all I really cared about. When it came time to think about a career, I didn’t want art to be a sideline. I wanted to make a living at it so I could devote myself fully.
“I love everything about paint — the color, the fluidity, the consistency, what you can do with it. I love it. I’m still experimenting with paint, and it seems narrow-minded, but I’m more in love with it now than I’ve ever been. I’ve tried etching, I’ve tried watercolor, but I always come back to oil. I’ll keep experimenting, I’ll keep changing, and I’ll keep painting as long as I possibly can.”
Listen to the full “The Center’s Studio Podcast” episode with host Glen Nelson here.