Meet Josh Louchheim | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Josh Louchheim and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Josh, why did you pursue a creative career?
I have loved art for as long as I can remember. My grandparents were big supporters of the arts, here in the valley, and I grew up appreciating the work they had in their home. Since learning about artists such as Van Gogh, Picasso and Monet, in 3rd grade art class, I knew I wanted to be an artist. Something about the bohemian lifestyle resonated with me, I found it to be mysteriously beautiful.

I was fortunate to have grown up around working artists such as Philip C. Curtis and Bil Keane. Both were very close friends of my grandparents. I vividly remember all the visits I made with them to Curtis’s studio. I was captivated with seeing a real artist in his workspace. Those memories are ones I draw a lot of inspiration from and made the thought of being an artist feel tangible. Though I did not begin to pursue any real creative endeavor until I was in my early 20’s.

My first real artistic pursuit began in music. A friend of mine and I started to write songs together, which eventually evolved into a 5-piece band, and we performed in many of the local venues. However, we disbanded a few years later, and after a month or so of no creative outlet, I decided to become an oil painter.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a self-taught artist who works strictly with oil paint. I use a very limited palette of primary colors, brown and white. Mixing all my colors so I can continue to expand my knowledge of color.

I mostly paint surrealistic landscapes, depicting the Sonoran Desert I call home. My paintings are a combination of the natural world and the world within my head, which tends to lend to their surrealistic element. Something I have begun to refer to as modern westerns.

I am particularly proud of my current body of work. I feel like after so many years of trial and error I finally am “comfortable” with the medium and my execution. Meaning that I have a much easier time creating what I have envisioned.

Being a self-taught artist comes with many hurdles, but the biggest has always been the doubt associated with it. I always feel/felt like I was missing something critical, that I would have learned had I went to art school. But as I do with most doubts I try and outwork them, remaining disciplined and focused on completing the goals and tasks I have set for myself.

The business of art is a very interesting and humbling one, which comes with a lot of rejection. But with every no there is always hope that the next could be a yes. Having this mindset has given me the strength needed to persevere in such a subjective field.

I feel fortunate with all I have accomplished so far in my journey and blessed that I am able to continue to forge my way forward and making a name for myself in the world of art.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting, we would be spending most of our days golfing. Playing at some of my favorite courses, Kierland, Ambiente at Camelback Golf Club, Silverado or Papago. Definitely grab some tacos at Taco Jaliscos (best tacos in the valley).

Dinner at Thompson 105, one my new favorites, the prime rib! Maybe Sushi from Sushi Brokers, and a lot of grilling by the pool.

I think one of the best parts about Phoenix is how easily accessible all the other cities within Maricopa County are. You have your choice of anywhere in the valley to go explore and enjoy. And we have so much to offer as far as attractions, restaurants and nightlife that it really is a destination and a fantastic place to call home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people who have supported me along the way. But a special thanks to Mark McDowell for giving me guidance when I first began painting, Kraig Foote for giving me my start and experience in a gallery setting, all the art directors and curators who have given me the opportunity to exhibit my work, my grandparents for cultivating my love for art, my family for always attending my exhibits and my wife and daughter for always standing by my side.

Also, a huge thank you to everyone who has purchased my work throughout the years. I appreciate you all for making my dream a reality.

Website: https://louchheimart.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louchheim_art/