"Her Grandson", by Ed Kucera 2007 Award of Excellence recognition from the Oil Painters of America

DAVID EDWARD KUCERA was born in San Jose, California. He first displayed his artistic nature at the age of five, after being sent to his room as punishment for a variety of mischievous deeds. As he sat wondering what he could do to pass the time, he noticed a box of colored crayons and four empty walls. One can guess what happened next!

At the age of ten, his family moved to Nebraska, and while most of the kids his were helping with farm work, he spent most of his time painting and drawing. In high school  Kucera was encouraged by his art teacher to pursue a career in art, but this talented individual decided to focus his life on a career in music, and in 1984, Ed graduated from the Guitar Institute of Technology in Hollywood, California.

Though playing music gave him some fond memories, and some unique traveling experiences, his creative energy eventually led him back to drawing and painting. He enrolled at the Colorado Institute of Art (now the Art Institute of Colorado). There he gained a reputation by winning illustration contests and earning a Merit Scholarship, and in June 1991, he graduated with honors, including Best Portfolio.

After graduation, Ed came to a crossroad and decided to go into a career in fine art instead of the commercial field. His work now adorns the walls of many collectors internationally and is on display in a U.S. Embassy overseas.

Kucera finds people of the Old West to be visually and spiritually fascinating subject matter. Through a colorfully rich palette, clever composition, and perspective his work comes alive.

Among his recent recognitions is the Award of Excellence received at the Oil Painters of America National Exhibition & Sale in May 2006. In 2007, Ed also won an Award of Excellence for a painting entitled "Her Grandson" at the Oil Painters of America National Show and Exhibition.

He is a Masters Signature Member of the Oil Painters of America.