The manicured landscapes by Ross Penhall reveal mankind’s inherent desire to modify and shape their surroundings. In these paintings Penhall has eliminated the presence of man, leaving us only their traces, evidenced by groomed trails, winding roads and orderly flora. His rolling hills, expansive trees and vibrant skies serve as a brief reminder that nature cannot be entirely maintained. His caring attention to detail and refined color schemes reveal a profound respect for nature.

Penhall acknowledges the subconscious influences in his work. In his youth he visited museums and observed the great artists of the time, but it was not until later in his painting career that these influences took shape. After years of painting he developed his own style. It was then that he recalls viewing the work of WPA artists such as Grant Wood, Edward Hopper and George Bellows, whom he believes helped him confirm his style and inspired him to move forward with it. Penhall’s paintings quickly became known for their distinctive style, rendering a character and charm that is unprecedented. -- Christina Maybaum

"I love eliminating unnecessary details and distilling it down to what it is that I'm attracted to, whether it's lights and darks, shadows, contrast between large and small, near and far, leading the eye through the painting."

"You should see me when they [the paintings] don't work out. I won't leave until I can get them to a point. Sometimes it's a struggle, and I'm sweating, I break out in sweat. This whole idea of the euphoric artist in the studio... painting can be that, but it sometimes isn't, it's a lot of work."

"When someone likes your work there's a reason, you're obviously communicating."