Landscape painter Alex Dzigurski has led an inspired life, with a talented father leading him to the path of being an artist. Today, Alex continues to paint and teach, despite having MS. He tells us that he now works from his wheelchair and although his capacity is greatly diminished, “I am grateful and thank God every day that I am still able to paint.
“The greatest sacrifice and challenge is not being able to paint outside much anymore, in nature, but I do have an extensive portfolio of sketches and photographs that I can still work from, thanks to my many travels. I have had to alter the way that I hold my paint brushes, but I am still able to complete some nice compositions. I love what I do and will continue to paint, as well as to guide and mentor young artists, in any way possible.”
We’re grateful that Alex has taken the time to share his story with us, and know you’ll be just as inspired and moved as our team is. ~CherieDawn Haas, Editor, Plein Air Today
Alex Dzigurski: My Journey as an Artist
I have been blessed to be surrounded by art my entire life. Growing up in my father’s studio, I watched him paint, an experience that deeply shaped my world. From a young age, I was fortunate to travel extensively with my parents, visiting world-class museums and meeting many of my father’s colleagues and fellow artists. These early experiences instilled in me a profound appreciation for the creative process.
Our family trips took us to breathtaking locations, from the rugged peaks of Glacier National Park in Montana and the Grand Tetons in Wyoming to the stunning coastlines of Oregon and Washington. We explored the Sierra Nevada range, the deserts of Arizona, and the vast landscapes of Alberta and British Columbia. Overseas, we found inspiration in the lush beauty of Hawaii, the historic charm of Europe—especially France, Norway, Switzerland, and Italy—and my father’s native Yugoslavia.
Education and Foundations
Directly after high school, I enrolled at the American Academy of Art in Chicago to begin my formal education. It was an incredibly inspirational environment, and I was mentored by legendary teachers like Bill Parks, Ted Smuskiewicz, and Irving Shapiro. I was also surrounded by immense talent; many of my classmates, such as Dan Gerhartz, Scott Burdick, and Rose Frantzen, have gone on to become exceptional artists. During this time, I had the honor of meeting Richard Schmid and Nancy Guzik through the historic Palette and Chisel Club.
After graduating in 1990, I returned home to study intensively under my father. For five years, until his passing in 1995, I had the privilege of learning his specific palette and the alla prima technique. Working side-by-side with a master painter was the greatest honor of my career. I have continued to refine these skills over the last 35 years through life drawing and plein air painting.
Style and Inspiration
My style is rooted in traditional classical realism with an impressionistic touch. I am constantly inspired by nature and the challenge of capturing God’s glory on canvas. Whether I am painting the redwoods of California or the winding roads of wine country, my goal is always to emulate the beauty I see in the world. Even while raising a young family, I have maintained my commitment to traveling for my art, finding new subjects across the Western U.S. and Europe.
Spotlight: Waterfall at Voss, Norway
One of my favorite pieces is “Waterfall at Voss, Norway.” Inspired by a trip to the central part of the country, this painting captures the dynamic energy of a rushing stream contrasted against the quiet values of traditional farm huts. It represents a quintessential Norwegian scene that spoke to me through its power and simplicity.
The Professional Path and Advice
The artistic life is not without its challenges. Like many, I struggle to find the perfect conditions for plein air work and must navigate the business side of art—marketing, sales, and gallery relationships. Overcoming these hurdles requires discipline, passion, and a commitment to surrounding yourself with the right people.
For beginning artists, my best advice is to loosen up. Do not be afraid to make mistakes; they are essential to the process. I often say that every successful painting is the result of at least 1,000 revisions. Be tenacious, stay inspired, and strive to make each new painting better than the last. If you stick with it, you will be amazed by your own evolution.
Looking for MORE inspiration?
Join us for the next Plein Air Live online art conference! Plein Air Live gives you invaluable insights and live demonstrations from some of the world’s best plein air artists. Over the course of 3-4 exciting days, they’ll reveal techniques to improve your use of color, light and shadow, giving you the confidence and skills to paint outdoors and create more amazing artwork than you ever have before. Learn more at PleinAirLive.com.
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Story prepared for the web by Cherie Dawn Haas, Editor of Plein Air Today
