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Charles Spratt is a well-known Ottawa artist. His masterful handling of light captivates viewers. It's often heard repeated that it's what makes his work special. As a boy, he attended school in a one-room school house where his gift to draw was recognized by the teacher, and confirmed by applause from parents and fellow students when called upon to create Disney characters on the blackboard. Much of his spare time was spent with his dog by his side in the fields and forests near his home, where he developed a life-long appreciation for the outdoors. Following an engineering degree and two years working in the North, Charlie joined the family company, married, and became absorbed in business and raising a family. At the age of 40, under the mentorship of renowned plein air painter, Grant Tigner, Charlie experienced a calling to be a serious artist. While the responsibilities of family and work remained a priority, his spare time turned to art study, workshops, and other painting activities. When he turned 65, the company was sold and Charlie was free to pursue his dream. As his artistic skills improved, Spratt paintings could be seen in galleries in Ottawa, Manotick, Markham, Haliburton, Calgary, Vancouver and Baie-Ste-Paul. He continues to paint most days and looks foreword to leading groups, once again, on regular plein-air adventures this coming summer. Each painting bears a description and catalogue number inscribed on the back. There are no prints or copies. Each painting is unique, a treasure to own and appreciated every day: a gift for generations. Spratt is a signature member of the Ontario Society of Artists and the Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour. He was co-founder of the long-running National Capital Fine Art Festival and the Manotick Dam Art juried show. Thirty years ago, he was instrumental in forming Plein Air Ensemble, a not-for-profit outdoor painting group that continues to offer twice-yearly trips for artists. He is a Life-Member of the Manotick Art Association and volunteer co-ordinator of the MAA summer Plein Air Painting Program. - edited by Barbara Robson, Ottawa author - photography by Paul Powers, Stittsville, ON |
Professional artist, plein air painter, experienced in juring, critiquing and instruction. Signature member of Ontario Society of Artists (OSA), Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour (CSPWC). Past president, Ottawa Watercolour Society, Life member Manotick Art Association, membership in the West Carleton Art Association and East Central Ontario Art Association (ECOAA)
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