Frederick Somers spent his growing-up years exploring the bluffs and woodlands along the Missouri River. “Most of my images have come from the land — whether stream, field or woodland. In each of them I attempt to paint the light and to enjoy the mystery of a moment in time. My goal is that the viewer and I can share an experience together, feeling ‘Yes, I’ve known a moment just like this. It was wonderful.’”

Though Somers is now a full-time studio artist, he teaches workshops in pastel and watercolor and has taught art at Carleton College and St. Olaf College, both in Northfield, Minnesota. “I encourage students to paint what they love,” says Somers, whose paintings reflect that same philosophy.