A description of artistic goals, aims, and views.

1. Todd Christopher Orchard
58 West 200 South American Fork, Utah 84003
(801) 492-4197 · toddorchard@msn.com
Artist Statement 2009
"Beauty is at once the ultimate principle and the highest aim of art." Goethe
I believe that true art has a greater significance that goes beyond cultural comment or
social commodity. Art is essential to human lives. I believe people are enriched by
meaningful visual experiences. My ambition is to create a uniquely beautiful sight
experience.
To achieve this aspiration, my process remains flexible and innovative. I consider myself
a traditional painter. I am not, however, bound by any set of “traditional” rules. The act
of painting is both difficult and satisfying; mental exertion is painful but the intellectual
labor yields worthwhile rewards. Struggle and pain are essential for beauty to be created.
My work has always dwelled in the realm of realism. Though considered irrelevant by
some, I believe this appropriate form of admiration, has no limit to expression. There is
still so much to observe and paint. The natural world is incredible. A landscape combed
with light and shadow stirs a desire in me to imitate nature. I often return to the landscape
theme of near and far. The painted illusion of space is visually exciting; the organization
of paint for this purpose always delights me.
However lofty my aspiration towards beauty, I realize that not every painting will be
permeated with that quality; an effort to pursue this ideal is germane.