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ON CANVAS

Bringing the light to black canvas

The art of Jerry Hernandez

Posted

Las Cruces artist Jerry Hernandez paints almost exclusively on black canvas. But it’s bright light that brings his stunning oil landscapes to life.

“Light is a critical part,” Hernandez said. “That’s where the magic begins.”

A native of Las Cruces and 1990 graduate of Mayfield High School, Hernandez retired earlier this year after more than 26 years with the City of Las Cruces Utilities Department. He converted the dining room of the Las Cruces home he shares with his wife and daughter into a studio and gallery and now paints full time.

But he began drawing in the third grade, after watching his father create cartoon characters.

“He always inspired me,” Hernandez said of his dad.

He moved on to painting animals, and then was inspired by artists such as Bob Ross and William Alexander painting landscapes on public television programs.

He fell in love with oils because of their bright colors, especially when lit. “The colors just pop out at you,” Hernandez said. “They never fade.”

Hernandez often paints from photos he has taken in the Southwest, the California coastline, Wyoming, and the Northwest.

“I just love nature,” he said. “I love the colors. I love clouds. I love sunsets.”

Hernandez has attracted more than 1,500 followers on Instagram since February and has created short animations of some of his paintings. He also creates prints of his work and does commissioned pieces.

Contact Hernandez at 575-571-1313 and jerryhernandezart@gmail.com. Visit JerryHernandezArt.com, Instagram @jerryhernandezart and Facebook.com/jerryhernandezart.

Mike Cook may be contacted at mike@lascrucesbulletin.com.

Jerry Hernandez art

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