Rod Wimer is an artist who enjoys the journey of creating abstract and contemporary figurative paintings with multiple mediums and the infusion of collaged elements. Working on substrates of wood panel, canvas, and paper, he builds multi layered works with paint, graphite, colored pencil and oil sticks. Much of his work includes the use of handmade papers, wood, dirt, fabrics and found objects.
Born in 1960, Rod was adopted by missionary parents, and most of his formative years were spent in the Central African Republic. Largely ignored by the rest of the world, and ruled by then dictator Jean Bedel Bokassa, this poverty stricken country in the center of the African continent, was where Rod first discovered his love of creative expression. The African culture, with its unique design aesthetic, exotic wildlife, and visionary landscapes, are all continuing influences in this artist’s ongoing exploration of his own work. During this time his family made several trips to Europe, where they always made a point to visit the world renowned museums.
“Many times, museum trips were part of the itinerary for my sake. My parents wanted these experiences for me and I will be forever grateful. Viewing actual works by the great masters created indelible memories that continue to inspire my creative journey!” says Wimer.
“My life spent in Africa and Europe served in helping me to dream beyond what was sometimes a stifling fundamentalist missionary culture. It drove my understanding that the world is large, wonderful and beautiful on many levels. This understanding motivates my art to this day!”
After Africa, Rod spent several years in Hawaii. Lush island landscapes, tropical flowers, and vast horizons of azure sea and sky, further developed his passion for texture and color. He is inspired by Hawaiian artists Allyn Bromley, Pegge Hopper, and Esther Shimazu.
He also studied under national artist and educator Sally Miller who placed great emphasis on all aspects of basic design, with a strong appreciation for abstracted subject matter.
Rod lives in North Carolina where he continues to work as a professional artist. His art is found in both private and corporate collections across the continental United States, as well as Hawaii, Canada, Great Britain, France and the Netherlands.
