Foundry Artists

Kurt Plinke has been observing and depicting nature for over thirty years. First studying watercolors in Ohio with Leland McClellan, Kurt has been a student of water-based mediums ever since. In College, Kurt considered becoming a biologist, and studied both art and biology at Wilmington College and Bowling Green State University. Later, Kurt studied egg temperas and painting at Towson University. Chance landed Kurt and his family in Maryland, where he was taken with the diversity of life along the Chesapeake Bay and its’ Eastern Shore. Since moving to the shore, Kurt has spent years studying and observing the myriad of intertwined ecosystems there, depicting what he sees in his detailed watercolors. He often becomes fascinated by the overlooked; those little creatures hiding underfoot or overhead. Many of his watercolors reflect this, paintings of insects, amphibians, and moss-covered rocks. Other paintings look at natural patterns and rhythms. Kurt loves to identify patterns in nature, be it as simple as the veins of a leaf or as complex as the repetition of migration and movement. These paintings may be some of his favorites, as they at first appear simple, then gain in complexity as they are viewed.

I was born in Philadelphia, Pa., but have lived in Maryland for over 30 years. The beauty of the Eastern Shore inspires me to try and put on canvas that which I see all around me.

I took art as a major in high school. Family, friends and art instructors encouraged my talent. I started oil painting at the YMCA in Philadelphia with a volunteer retired army sergeant who offered instructions and good advice. The cost was free. When I moved to Maryland I found that the Dept. of Parks and Recreation offered classes with professionals and joined right in. I have taken classes with Joyce Zeigler and Bobby Seager, and I was part of Tuesday evening art classes with Joyce for over 20 years.

I am a house counselor for the Benedictine OCP program and work 4 pm to midnight at a Benedictine OCP home – I paint after my clients have gone to bed for the evening and my chores are finished. I love painting animals and people, but do not offer portraits of people. I try and stay with animal portraits or landscapes where I can insert some type of “critter.” I paint people in scenes where they tell a story as part of the painting.

I paint what I enjoy but try new challenges to see how successful I can be. Painting with, and attending local art groups, allow important critiques to help me grow as an artist. I take classes offered locally and I exhibit locally at most venues who offer to show my work, including The Foundry.

I find that no matter how long I try to master the art, there is always something, some event or some person who can teach me something new. It is a continuous learning experience. My easel is always up and my palette is always out, ready to capture the moment.

When I’m not painting, I love to stay in touch with family and friends, go fishing with my husband and take part in activities offered by the local communities.