Charlene Will
My landscape paintings are about my love for, and connection to, the wilderness areas of California and the West. I’m inspired by the life that dwells within these spaces, by the dramatic beauty, order, and chaos that are integral parts of the land, water, sky, and mountains. As I’m drawn to their ever-changing forms, color, and light, they continually mesmerize me and fill me with awe.
Most of the landscapes in my paintings are a bit imaginary yet solidly grounded in the places I hike and spend time. Back in my studio, these daily walks and hikes weave memories that intermingle in my mind while I’m painting. As they scatter and settle, they come together as an overlapping but unifying expression that becomes the painted essence of a place. I’m grateful for the constant conversation I have with nature, which makes space for my ever-changing perceptions and perspectives.
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I’m honored and thrilled to be recognized this year as the Pence Gallery’s Emerging Artist of 2026, which will culminate in my first solo show in January/February 2026, in Davis, California.
Contact
www.charlenewill.com
charlene@charlenewill.com
@charlenewill.art
Interview
What inspires your art practice and keeps you motivated?
I love walking with my dog and spending time outdoors. I love nature and feel most alive there. I love exploring California. I enjoy seeing and looking. My favorite thing in life is the fact that I can see. It’s so unbelievable—looking, observing, witnessing what is in front of me. Painting with oils is my next favorite thing; it’s the perfect medium for me. It has a buttery, sensual character that behaves so wonderfully, and oils have been used by so many artists throughout history.
How does your mission as an artist influence the work you create?
It’s a fortunate life to be able to create and make art, to have this freedom to express oneself. The only thing better than this is when others find your work engaging, when it sparks depth, emotions, and conversation.
Can you share a key part of your creative process that helps you stay focused?
Art has become my life—everything I see, do, and try is through my lens as an artist. I’m always looking at light, situations, color, flowers, and plants on my walks. How would I paint a nighttime sky? Books, music, cooking, gardening—each of these creative muses is a daily part of my life. I tend to stay in motion, to keep creating no matter what. These daily activities feed my soul and creative process.
What mindset tip do you rely on to overcome challenges in your art career?
The best thing has been to allow myself to paint badly and be vocal about it. A friend might ask how my painting went that day, and literally, for about two years, I would say, “I painted badly today, but I’m good with that.” I really was. Even though it’s not always fun, I know there’s a learning curve with everything, so I believe in being real about that and embracing it.
How do you hope your art impacts the world or your community?
I want to add beauty to the world, especially in this age of global rift and crisis everywhere you look. Beauty that touches the soul of a person—not pretty, not decorative. I want my art to touch people deeply. That may or may not have a broad reach, but I love, of course, when someone wants to live with my art and take it home.
