Chris Sheridan is a contemporary realist whose paintings search out the stories and myths lingering within the splendor and shadows of nature. His work originally sought to better understand the human condition, through symbol laden renderings of the human figure inspired by folklore, mythology and religion. In 2017, his focus abruptly changed as he wandered deeper into storytelling, moving beyond the human form, to its very inspiration in the landscape.

Before embarking on this nearly 25-year journey, Chris earned a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in visual arts. He has served as an adjunct professor of art and design. Art residencies and extensive travel throughout Europe and South America have allowed him to immerse himself ever deeper, into the wonders of nature and rich story. After calling numerous areas of the US home, Chris has settled in the Pacific Northwest in Washington State.

Landscape Statement, 2024

A pair of art residencies in Finland have shaped my understanding of the complexities of my mental being, and perhaps permanently changed my art. For the better part of twenty years, my art has focused on storytelling, and once again, I found myself wandering off into the woods to search out the haunts and natural phenomena that would inspire new stories.

Unbeknownst to me, the fates (or perhaps the spirits that populate the lore-rich forests of Finland) had something quite different in mind. Every step into the forest took me even deeper into myself. It would take a long night by the fire to describe what happened next, but this journey into the trees brought me to find the deep roots of depression and anxiety, pain and trauma that had been ignored for a lifetime. Since then, I have learned how much I needed to venture into the loneliness and introspection of the forest. It is now clear that my art is inextricably connected to this journey and is intended to tell a story of healing.

My art is rooted in traditional techniques, touched by a contemporary visual sensibility, inspired by rich storytelling, and always plays with dualities, both in terms of concept and intention. The red fabric which has gradually manifested itself into my work since my time in Finland speaks to the act of storytelling and encompasses my own story. At once hinting at folkloric tales and legend and representing the mental wellbeing of the artist, the fabric invites the viewer to return to a state of wonderment and enchantment while serving as a visceral symbol of personal healing. A final key to the dual nature of my work is the choice to include location names and coordinates in my titles. This allows me to relish the memory of a particular place and also invite my viewers to go on their own journey and find their own stories there.