18 Park West artists who capture romance in art

“Date Night” (2015), Slava Ilyayev

On Valentine’s Day, we often think of hearts, boxes of chocolate, or jewelry. However, few mediums (or gifts) could more fully express the many nuances of love and romance than art.

Whether it’s an ideal romantic location, a fun date night or love at first sight, many Park West Gallery artists have captured the spirit of love with their art. Though it is by no means an exhaustive list, here are a few artists who help capture that ephemeral feeling in their artwork.

Romantic destinations

“La Boheme” (2015), Viktor Shvaiko

A getaway to a country like Italy can bring out the romance in anyone. The colors and scenes of works such as Viktor Shvaiko, Marko Mavrovich and Sam Park evoke the impressions and memories such splendid Mediterranean destinations can leave on a person.

“Summer Night in Acapulco” (2005), Fanch Ledan

Others, such as Fanch Ledan, paint ideal scenes from lovely homes and apartments, providing a unique room with a view perfect for a romantic getaway. For those looking for a quiet place by the water, the artwork of David Najar offers escapes to ideal locations in nature.

“Forest Dreamland” (2014), David Najar

Sensualism

“Mystique” (2000), Peter Nixon

The tingle shooting down your back when you are struck by love, the moment you fall head over heels when seeing someone, or even appreciating someone’s beauty – all are aspects artists have touched upon, such as Peter Nixon, who captures the human figure with passion and energy. Pino is famously known for his romantic book cover art as well as his attractive, yet elegant, paintings of women.

“Early Morning” (2005), Pino

Meanwhile, Csaba Markus creates stunning portraits of women (specifically “Pure Love”) that actually earned him a spot on the Top 10 Most Sensual Paintings in the “Toronto Sun.”

“Pure Love” (2013), Csaba Markus

Sensualism isn’t limited to the human figure, and no discussion about the subject would be complete without the art of Chris DeRubeis, creator of Abstract Sensualism®. The sleek curves of both his figurative and abstract works dance with movement, and evokes sensuality in his metal art.

“Opposites Attract” (2014), Chris DeRubeis

Date night

“Elegant Evening” (2006), Linda Le Kinff

Whether going on that exciting first date or keeping the spark alive on an anniversary, date nights give two people the chance bond and grow together. When the time comes for choosing a date, the artwork of Linda Le Kinff shows the joys of attending concerts and other live performances. If a more wild time is desired, maybe it’s a night on the town with drinks or gambling depicted in the lighthearted art of Michael Godard.

“Rat Pack II” (2015), Michael Godard

On the other hand, dates can be simple, like a romantic stroll as seen in the works of Slava Ilyayev. A date doesn’t have to be a grand gesture or outing, either. A simple night at home with a bottle of wine, like the photorealistic visions of Scott Jacobs, is the perfect setting for a romantic homemade meal.

“Caymus by Candlelight” (2006), Scott Jacobs

Flowers

“Abundant” (2015), Lyn Diefenbach

Few holidays or occasions call for a bouquet of flowers more than Valentine’s Day. Many artists love to paint these beautiful gifts, such as the photorealistic flower art of Lyn Diefenbach or the more impressionistic flora of Simon Bull. Artist Dominic Pangborn paints floral art on both sides of the spectrum, from his abstract poppies to realistic roses.

“You Make Me Feel Like Dancing XII” (2012), Simon Bull

For more floral arrangements, the oil paintings of Maya Green show flowers in breathtaking colors, while Michael Milkin’s warm-toned floral paintings certainly allude to the love, emotion and beauty of a romance.

“A Promise” (2014), Michael Milkin

Art captures many emotions, and can be a very special and personal gift for a loved one. To find that perfect Valentine’s Day art for that perfect someone, be sure to view our Winter Sale Collection.

Are there any artists we haven’t included that make you think of romance and love? Feel free to tell us about them in the comments below or on our Facebook and Twitter pages.