Artist Explores Capital Trail During July With Paintbrush in Hand: Capturing Landscapes on Canvas
Local Richmond artist, Anthony Bowes, always knew he didn’t want to work behind a desk but it wasn’t until he used his artistic talents to honor a fallen trooper and help comfort a grieving family that he turned his passion into a reality. After Covid, Anthony wanted to use his artwork to help a local nonprofit. Being a nature and outdoor enthusiast, he decided to partner with the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation for a new initiative. Anthony will be highlighting the Virginia Capital Trail in his artwork as he explores the Capital Trail during the entire month of July.
Each week Anthony will reveal a painting depicting a new favorite scenic spot along the Trail. And the best part, you’ll have a chance to own a Trail painting for yourself! These original, one-of-a-kind paintings will be auctioned off every Friday for the next few months starting Friday, July 9th! The auction will run from 8 pm on Friday to 8 pm on Saturday. The highest bid via comment on the official auction posts wins the artwork. 100% of the money raised will go to support the Virginia Capital Trail.
“Anthony is a very talented young artist with incredible attention to detail. He has the ability to capture and paint landscapes in a way that is so natural and awe-inspiring,” shares Cat Anthony, Executive Director of the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation. “We are extremely grateful to partner with Anthony to showcase the diverse and beautiful scenery along the Capital Trail depicted in his artwork while raising funds to help support our mission.”
Influences, History, Goals: Learn More About Artist Anthony Bowes
How did you get started?
I always had a knack for drawing growing up, but never considered it a career possibility until I painted a portrait of a fallen state trooper to give to his family. Their reaction was humbling, to say the least. It was that painting and how I saw it affect a family in such a positive way, that led me to truly believe in myself and my art.
What was your inspiration in painting scenes along the Capital Trail?
Growing up right outside of the Richmond area, I had never heard of the Virginia Capital Trail. I figure there are a bunch more people that are just like me that would love the Trail, but don’t know what it has to offer. By painting along the Trail, I hope to draw attention to the beautiful state we live in while bringing awareness to this incredible resource in our community.
Who or what are your biggest influences?
My grandmother, Baba, was a major influence in my life. Like most grandmothers, Baba always believed in me from a young age. She saw great potential in me that I couldn't see in myself. Baba had taught for 30+ years as an art professor for university and was still actively teaching there through my teen years. She would encourage me to draw and give me pointers ultimately becoming my first and most influential teacher. When I would get frustrated that I couldn't draw something, Baba would show me how to fix it. When I made mistakes, Baba would teach me the fundamentals so that I would understand for myself why something didn't look right. She taught me about materials and helped me with my first oil painting. She even found a venue for my first one-man art exhibition at the age of 17. We seemed to have this unspoken agreement between the two of us, that if I kept practicing and working hard, I could really make this art thing a career.
Why did you select the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation as your fundraiser beneficiary?
Back in January of 2021, I was speaking with an artist friend about using my work to help a non-profit. He went on to tell me about the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation and the work that they do in our community. After going to see the trail for myself and browsing through their website, I recognized the positive impact they’re having in Virginia. Wanting to put my art to use, I reached out to the foundation and we got to work on this project!
What are your future goals?
I’m super motivated to use my art to the best of my abilities. I will continue seeking out ways to learn, improve and hone my skills while helping others in the process. Raising money for wonderful organizations like the VCTF is one of the ways I plan to give back. I also have a soft spot in my heart for the Blue Ridge Parkway and our National Forests and plan to work with them in the future.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to get outside, whether that’s running, hiking, painting, or doing something with friends. I’m kind of a gym rat and I’m always trying to push myself physically. I recently completed a 4x4x48 and a 32-mile section hike along the Appalachian Trail.
Be sure to check out Anthony’s website: www.anthonybowes.net
And follow him on Facebook: www.facebook.com/anthonybowesa
Be sure to check Anthony’s Facebook Page every Friday evening for your chance to own one of these unique Capital Trail paintings! Thank you Anthony for this amazing opportunity!
