Bodegon: the Spanish tradition of still life painting that goes beyond stillness. Shibusa: the Japanese concept of the beauty of simplicity that goes beyond simplicity. These are two aspects of the striking work discovered by the “Professor of Imagination,” James C. Christensen in his once-student, now-friend Chris Young.

“Chris’ art allows me to see the ordinary in an extraordinary way,” Christensen says. “The richness of his color, the attention to detail, and the intensity of observation allows me to see his subjects with new eyes and to appreciate them in unexpected ways.” Young explored the nature of nature while on a two-year religious mission in Japan, where he was highly impressed with the striking simplicity of Zen design, art, and aesthetics.

Upon returning home, he changed his Brigham Young University major from engineering to fine art, soon joining Professor Christensen on an Old World Masters museum tour of Europe.

Young’s studio is filled with the stuff of his paintings: exotic shells, dried flowers, bird nests, and other objects which invite contemplation and reveal detail upon fascinating detail -- a feeling each of his highly crafted works of light, design, and color invites us to do.

The meditative, calming feelings his paintings elicit are now shared by galleries who represent the sale of his originals in Utah, California, and Washington. His awards include “Best in Show” at the Springville Museum of Art and the Juror’s Choice Award from the Utah Arts Council.

Northern Utah

Published by
The Greenwich Workshop
since 1999

Preferred medium: oil

Tuscan Primrose

“I am fascinated by nature’s grand design. As we take time to carefully look at seemingly ordinary objects, an incredible beauty and harmony is revealed. Therefore, I enjoy painting images that create a tranquil, contemplative mood in which you can see and feel many things.”

Still Life