R Morris Patterson

R. Morris Patterson

 

I am a “Texas Boy,” born in Temple and raised in Amarilloand Austin. During my time in Amarillo, Georgia O’Keefe was an art teacher at two local high schools. I was fortunate to develop a relationship with Ms. O’Keeffe. Because of her influence I developed an early interest in art by experimenting with various art medium.

 After moving to Austin, I was enrolled in a school art class. I was so influenced by my teacher, Rebecca Brooks (who later became an art professor at the University of Texas) that I failed seventh grade so I could take art again.

 I later graduated from seminary school, but realized that I wanted to be an artist. At this point in my life James Boren (one of America’s most prolific watercolor artists) encouraged me to pursue my dream. He provided a “start” for my career by giving me paints, stacks of prints, and instructions to copy the prints. I followed his directions and began my art career. As a young artist I worked at my art and supported myself by painting houses. I became intrigued with Paul Calle’s “refrisition,” and have since been a “full-time” artist.

 After spending several years in Waco and Oklahoma, I returned to Texas where I renewed my association with James Boren and lived behind the B & L Foundry in Clifton. I worked at the foundry casting bronzes for several people including Tony Eubanks and Melvin Warren.

 I have sculptures in the State Capitol in Austin, and several governors, including Governor and Dotty Lamb, own my pieces. My work has been displayed and sold at the oldest gallery in Texas—The Country Store Gallery in Austin.

 I have been a member of several societies—SWS, TAS, PPOA, and have won awards from most of these.

 My family consists of a son who is serving in the Navy, and a daughter who is married to a soldier currently serving in Iraq.