Anthony Bowes is an award winning representational artist, raised in Chesterfield, Virginia. Born in 1999, Bowes grew up spending lots of time outdoors, playing in the creek and the woods that made up his backyard. He became interested in art at an early age, taking up drawing and being encouraged by his grandmother, who was an art professor for Liberty University. Bowes’ Grandmother would continue to play an influential role in his early career; teaching him the fundamentals of drawing, introducing him to the work of Artist, David Heath who would later become a mentor to him, and by helping to organize Bowes’ first solo show at the age of 17.
Largely self taught, Bowes accredits much of his ability to online courses, books, and the work of others that serve as an inspiration to him. Bowes has studied online courses offered by artists such as Scott Christensen, Richard Schmid and Casey Baugh, and books like “Carlson’s Guide to Landscape Painting,” by John F Carlson, “Composition of Outdoor Painting,” by Edgar Payne, and “Alla Prima ll,” by Richard Schmid. In addition to these books and courses, Bowes began painting from life for his first time in 2017 after being introduced to plein air by artist David Heath. Bowes considers each one of these books, courses and experiences as invaluable resources that have played a critical roll in his development as an artist.
Beginning in 2021, Bowes started to participate in multiple plein air events like En Plein Air Texas and Door County Plein Air Wisconsin, traveling across the country regularly to paint some of Americas most scenic locations. During this time, he also kindled a love of philanthropy, auctioning off some of his work online for various non profits. During 2021-2022 he was able to raise over $5,700 for these non-profit organizations in his community. Bowes continues to study and develop his skills, participating in selective Plein Air events while searching for new and creative ways to help others with his art.
Although Bowes' favorite subject matter has been narrowed down to landscapes, nothing has changed about his passion for art since he began on this journey. Bowes says, "From the time that I could hold a pencil, I have loved creating. But, as much as I love making art, it brings me no greater joy than to create something that someone else treasures. My real passion is creating fine art for others."
While Bowes says he thoroughly enjoys traveling all around for plein air competitions, he has taken a step back from the events in 2023 in order to focus on larger works in his home studio.
