Andrew Speers

Madill Art Gallery, Madill, Oklahoma, 2001

I am a art teacher in Colorado. I previouly taught elementary school teaching kids grades K-6. I now am working at O'Connell Middle School were I teach 7th and 8th grade. I recieved a Bachelors of Science of Art Education at Southeasten Oklahoma State University in 2000. When I'm not teaching or painting, I'm enjoying the great outdoors in the wonderful mountians. Rockclimbing and hiking with my wife Nicole and Sherpa our dog are some of my favorite pastimes. On Febuary 25, 2007 I became the proud father of twin boys. Being a father is the greatest thing in my life.

I enjoy the pure act of creating something from nothing. There is nothing quiet like becoming completely involved in a work. From the initial sketch to the evolving image and finally to the finished work the organic process is very therapeutic.
The animal as a subject came after my wife and I moved to the mountains of Colorado. Within a week, we saw a red fox cross our front yard. It was a moment that brought my awareness how much I loved the outdoors to a full realization. Having spent my childhood roaming the oak and hickory forests of Oklahoma, I had grown up surrounded by wildlife. Since that early morning of the red fox we have witnessed many creatures pass our front yard including deer, elk, bear.
I hope you enjoy my works as much as I enjoy creating them.

Enlarged to Show Texture, May 2000, Vanmeter Art Gallery 419 W. Main Durant, Oklahoma

2001 Madill Oklahoma Teacher of the Year Prestented by Wal-mart