About Will Wilson
Precise, whimsical portraits and trompe l’oeil, Dutch Master style
Will Wilson is an American artist born in 1957 in Baltimore, Maryland.
Will Wilson at a glance
- Born: 1957, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Precise, whimsical realist paintings
- Medium: Oil painting
- Subjects: Portraits, figures, still lifes and trompe l’oeil
- Education: Schuler School of Fine Arts (1975 to 1979) and New York Academy of Art
- Collections: Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and National Postal Museum
- Gallery: Long ties with the John Pence Gallery in San Francisco
He studied at the Schuler School of Fine Arts from 1975 to 1979 and now lives in San Francisco. He is known for his portrait paintings, illustrations, and trompe l’oeil works. His art has been held in the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery. He painted the official portrait of former Maryland governor Bob Ehrlich Jr., and his work appeared on Michael Jackson’s album “Blood on the Dance Floor.”
He creates between 8-10 works each year, ranging from small to large sizes.
He paints from life, focusing on figures, florals, still lifes, and self-portraits. His style is precise and meticulous, inspired by the Dutch Masters and American painters like Harnett and Peto. His work is whimsical, blending disciplined execution with a boundless imagination.
He has exhibited at the John Pence Gallery in San Francisco for over three decades.
His illustrations have appeared in Time, Newsweek, and Money Magazine. He has won prizes across the US and his work is collected by museums and private collectors. He has been featured in ArtNews, American Artist, and International Artist Magazine.
– Painted Michael Jackson’s 1997 album cover.
– Exhibited at the Salmagundi Club and Butler Institute.
– Works range from $9,500 to $150,000.
– Featured in Forbes in September 2023.
– His auction record is $7,000 for “Peace Offering.”
“Wilson is a master of his painting craft, painting slowly and meticulously.”
