Alex Wilhite, born in Tuscumbia, Alabama, has long been captivated by the allure of art, a passion that took root at the tender age of five. Growing up amidst the vibrant culture of St. Louis, Missouri, he always found solace and inspiration in the presence of artistic expression, especially with the influence of his mother, who shares his creative inclination. By 16, Wilhite's fascination had solidified into a focused commitment to pursue an artistic path.
Wilhite honed his craft through formal education, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art from the University of North Alabama in Florence in 1987, followed by a Master of Fine Arts in Painting from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, in 1990. Despite his strong artistic foundation, his journey took a diverse turn as he began working as an American Sign Language instructor at the School of the Woods in Houston, Texas, in 2005. This role has provided him a unique perspective on communication and a sense of community, enriching his creative process.
Drawing inspiration from minimalist movements, color fields, and the tranquility of landscapes, Wilhite finds particular resonance with the calm aesthetics of Tonalism and the Hudson River School. These influences permeate his work, offering him a respite from the stresses of daily life. His creative process involves intense study of color value theories, which he explores through the textured interplay of handmade colors and mixed pigments. This commitment to crafting unique color theories serves as a hallmark of his artistic identity.
Wilhite's art stands apart for its innovative use of texture and color, a trait that shines through in his celebrated tonal works like "Moonlight Landscape Color Values." His artistic heroes, including Caspar David Friedrich, Gerhard Richter, and Frederic Church, continue to guide his evolving stylistic journey.
Throughout his career, Wilhite has been an active participant in the artistic community, with affiliations to the College Art Association and the Sawyer Artist Community. His work has been showcased in venues such as Laura Rathe Fine Art and has earned him accolades like the second-place award at the Earth Art Show in February 2024.
While the specifics of current exhibitions and collector connections remain understated, Wilhite’s visions are grounded in a deep understanding of how art functions as a vital societal element. Balancing his dual roles as an educator and artist, he steadily pursues the creation of compelling visual narratives that resonate with his audiences, hoping to expand his influence and recognition in the art world.
Outside the studio, Wilhite’s life is enriched by various hobbies and interests, which feed into his artistic sensibilities. As he looks to the future, Alex Wilhite remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of his craft and contributing meaningfully to the vibrant tapestry of contemporary art.
Statement
Through my work, I strive to push the boundaries of traditional painting by using raw materials to create my own unique colors. Drawing inspiration from the beauty of landscapes, abstract art, tonalism, and the Hudson River School, I continually explore new ways to capture the essence of nature in my artwork. The process of collecting earth, rock, dirt, clay, and pigments to make my own organic plant-based oil paint is a meditative experience that allows me to connect with the natural world. By using homemade oil paint and eco-friendly mediums like lavender and walnut oil, I not only create visually stunning pieces but also promote a healthier working environment. My art is a reflection of my passion for illumination and tonalism, resulting in truly one-of-a-kind pieces that speak to the soul.