My Story

Colossians 3:23
“23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”


Hello!
Welcome to my blog! My goal is to give you inspiration in your life through my art, teaching, and words.  My passion is oil painting and the goal of creating art to address the human need for hope and love giving you inspiration in your daily life. With a deep passion for God, I enjoy painting a variety of scenes that evoke emotion through dramatic lighting, sunsets, atmospheric effects, and Christian symbolism.  
 
​I was raised in a small northern Wisconsin town of Glidden. I learned to appreciate nature through my father and relatives who worked as lumberjacks and farmers. My grandmother encouraged my faith in God, strong work ethic, and love for art. I began oil painting at the age of 14 and was an outstanding art student, but my first oil painting was a complete failure in my eyes leaving me frustrated; and literally breaking the painting in half! At that point, I realized that I was going to have to accept not being an oil painter or learn how to do it well. This frustrating beginning and strong work ethic fueled my fire to learn how to be the best painter I could be!


I began my education in the field of wildlife biology at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. During that time, I worked for the Forest Service in the Chequamegon National Forest and the Elk Reintroduction Project in Clam Lake, Wisconsin. The desire to make art became overwhelming for me and lead me to pursue a career in art. I transferred to UW-Madison to study art and learned painting techniques to express my ideas.


My story of becoming an artist is filled with many hardships. Beginning in my early childhood, my mother suffered from debilitating depression and agoraphobia. I looked to art to find ways to bring happiness to my mother’s condition and joy to my own heart. As an adult, I battled my own demons. As a recovering alcoholic, I look to God and art for peace and positivity. I strive to use my gifts and abilities to share God’s love and beauty with others. In a world filled with anxiety and sadness, my art transcends the viewer to a place of calm bringing peacefulness to their mind and souls. These qualities make my art sought after by art collectors and enjoyed by thousands of people across the world.

If you are looking for inspiration in your life, follow my blog, other social media, or sign up for my emails. You will receive updates on my art, learn how to create your own art, and inspirational messages!


Blessings!

Joe Kiefer