Jim Vogel (b.1964), "First Waters" 38"H, 30"W, Oil on MasoniteA compelling and vibrant work by Roswell, New Mexico native Jim Vogel, First Waters showcases the artist's signature Regionalist style, which draws on the history and folk traditions of rural New Mexico. The painting's powerful imagery reflects Vogel's ability to capture the essence and struggle of the region's people.One of twelve children from Roswell, New Mexico regionalist painter Jim Vogel hopes his paintings capture the stories behind the people of rural New Mexico.Vogel uses bright colors and bold subjects which seem to struggle against a gravitational pull in the center of the painting. His style has been described like both Thomas Hart Benton and Salvador Dali.Vogel earned a degree from the Art Institute of Denver and worked in the field of advertising and graphic design before returning to New Mexico to pursue painting.