David Ray













David Ray
My paintings en plein air are meditations. They are created on site first by walking, sitting, and experiencing what it is like to be at the location. I set aside any preconceived creative intentions that I may bring to the location. Instead, I provide time, silently search, and wait for the unique qualities and beauty of the location to emerge. My paintings are intended to make a positive difference in our relationships with outdoor spaces and the true beauty we will find if we seek, are vigilant and take the time to wait for its reveal.
For over 30 years, I have contributed to the historical documentation of the US Air Force as an active artist in the US Air Force Art Program. I am also an active artist in the United States Coast Guard Art Program (COGAP).
I received my bachelor's degree in fine arts from the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, CA and a master's degree from National Louis University.
I recently concluded 9 years of service on the Board of Directors for Snow City Arts, a non- profit organization that provides high-quality arts education to children in Chicago area hospitals.
I currently volunteer as a Family-to-Family program leader for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness.