Mike Rangner Works
Artist Statement
Painting is a life long quest. Every time a brush is set to a canvas I work to express an emotion either through the image I've been moved by or the challenge of light, value and shapes before me. It is that driving force of endless possibilities that I enjoy, always learning and growing with each painting I complete.
Working outdoors or in my studio I strive to convey life like color schemes open spaces, rich with natural elements and movement.I hope others will enjoy the paintings I complete and that they find some link to their own personal experiences.
As an Oregon native, I’ve enjoyed a successful career as a professional illustrator in the Portland area for more than 20 years. My professional portfolio includes a diverse list of clients including Avia, Standard Insurance, Nike, the Oregon Zoo, as well as Northland Publishing and McGraw Hill Publishers.
My professional accomplishments include awards and honors from service organizations including the Oregon Food Bank, Goodwill Industries, and The National Box Association for my product design work. In 2006 I illustrated the children’s book “The Seed and The Giant Saguaro” it was recognized by then Governor of the State of Arizona Janet Napolitano, and was pick for the states 1st Grade Book reading program.
A recent move to the Mid-Willamette Valley has allowed me to further strengthen my love of plein air and studio painting by capturing the vast and diverse Oregon landscape that lies one hour in each direction of my home and studio in beautiful Northwest Albany. The diverse body of work includes pieces featuring landscapes across the Pacific Northwest including the Columbia River Gorge, Eastern Oregon, Coastal scenery and the rich farmlands of the Mid-Willamette Valley.