artist statement

Kenneth Ferguson's paintings reflect a distinctive approach to watercolor that has developed from more than 20 years of experience. From the early years of his career, Ken exhibited an interest in pushing the boundaries of this medium—most often known for its spontaneous washes and atmospheric qualities. In doing so, he has developed a technique that is a blend of both contemporary and Victorian approaches to watercolor painting. Ken's style is the result of a time-consuming method that involves multiple overlays of controlled washes, along with dry brush and splatter. Combined, these elements give his original paintings a rich color and pigment saturation that is seldom achieved in this difficult medium.

Ken's paintings beautifully combine figurative imagery with the rich material culture of tribal and military societies of the 18th and 19th centuries. While there is a degree of romanticism in Ken's work, realism looms larger. Ken's deep and abiding interest in history is always present in his paintings, be it a portrait of a Cheyenne Dog Soldier or a Dragoon of Napoleon's Imperial Guard. 

Ken currently resides in Phoenix, Arizona. He received his formal education at Northern Illinois University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1981. His work has won numerous awards in regional and national shows. His paintings are in private, corporate, and public collections throughout the United States and are available through the artist and at select galleries and shows.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What kind of paints do you use?

Always professional grade, highly permanent watercolor pigments from various makers, but predominately Windsor & Newton.

What kind of paper?

I prefer 200 lb Arches cold press.

How long have you been painting?

I've been painting professionally since 1981. I graduated with a BFA in illustration from Northern Illinois University that spring and picked up a job with an illustration firm on North Michigan Avenue shortly after. At the same time, I began participating in juried art shows in the Chicago area. As the shows became more lucrative financially, I left the firm to pursue my art full-time.

Who are your artistic influences?

My mom, Blanche Ferguson, is an accomplished water-colorist. I learned from her the potential and diversity of this medium. In the early 1980s, I discovered the work of Paul Pletka. His hyper-detail, rich color and semi-surreal handling of historical Native American subject matter inspired me to push my work beyond familiar and expected portrayals of historical subject matter. I am also quite fond of the work of the great French 19th century military artists Jean Louis Meissonier and Edouard Detaille, as well as the wonderful book illustrations of "Job" (Jacques Onfroy de Breville).

Do you use models or reenactors for your work?

I prefer to "scratch build" my paintings. That is, after I arrive at the subject I want to portray, I'll do a number of rough sketches to work out the composition and placement of the figure on the paper. I'll research the attire and material culture appropriate to the subject matter using everything from museum catalogs to first hand observation of actual artifacts. I also research physical appearance such as hairstyles, facial features, etc. using period portraits, historical photographs and first-hand written descriptions. I then translate this research into a final detailed drawing that becomes the basis for the finished painting.

How long do your paintings take to complete?

My style of painting is a rather slow process of achieving rich color saturation through multiple overlays of controlled transparent watercolor washes, finishing with dry brush and splatter A large painting, which for me is around 24" x 30", can take between 200 and 300 hours to complete.

How do you finish your paintings?

For many years, I presented my watercolor paintings in the traditional manner; that is, matted under museum glass. More recently, I am finishing the work with 20 coats of a spray mineral based acrylic varnish. This archival, non-yellowing finish is a barrier that protects the piece against moisture and UV light, taking the place of museum glass. This process allows my collectors more freedom about how they place the painting in their home without the problem of reflection on the glass.

Where can we see the artwork in person?

I'm currently showing my paintings at juried fine art shows, which are listed on the Upcoming Shows page of this website. After many years of gallery representation, I found I had become completely out of touch with the individuals who were collecting my paintings. It's gratifying to know personally some of the people who have chosen my art to be a part of their lives, whether in their home or office.

How much do your originals cost?

Original paintings start at about $1,200 for a smaller piece and can go up to $10,000+ for my largest, most intricate work.

Do you do commissions?

I do. There are so many different historical subjects to be explored that it's impossible to cover the wide gamut of people's interests. I might decide to do a series on Zulu warriors while a potential collector is interested in a Continental Marine from the American Revolution. That being said, I am only able to accept a limited number of commissions a year. I would encourage anyone who has a particular idea in mind to get in touch with me.

If I like a painting that's on your website, or if I am interested in a commission, how can I contact you?

Get in touch with me via the Contact page on this website. Or, call me at my home studio (602.799.8250). Or, email me at kaf1861@cox.net.

What forms of payment do you accept? Do you have a layaway package?

I accept all major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. I also accept checks and money orders. I do have a layaway package that makes it easier to afford my paintings by paying for them over time; I'm happy to provide details on request.