"The foundation for my work is accurate drawing, which begins with thoughtful observation. Charcoal is my first choice for its expressiveness and simplicity. In portraiture, I look to find the particular gestures and expressions that help me pinpoint that individuality of the subject. I focus on those qualities throughout the process." - Rebecca Gates
Rebecca Gates is a professional portrait artist and realist painter. Her work has received national recognition through awards from the Portrait Society of America in New York and the American Society of Portrait Artists. Ms. Gates' experience includes workshops with noted artists Daniel E. Green, William Whitaker, Michael Shane Neal and Anthony Ryder.
Prior to her association with the San Francisco Academy of Art University as student and fine art instructor, her artistic path included professional mural work, teaching art through private and public venues, and serving as co-founder and artistic director of the Oahu Center for the Arts and the highly successful Haleiwa Art Festival.
Ms. Gates' professional affiliations include the Portrait Society of America, California Art Club and Oil Painters of America. Her work has been shown in galleries and venues throughout California and Hawaii.
She continues to create commissioned portraiture and other work from her studio in Alameda, CA.
Acclaimed director and choreographer Michael Smuin appears with artist Rebecca Gates at the unveiling of his portrait.
The portrait was donated by Mr. and Mrs. Phil Gust and hangs in the Smuin Ballet Studio in San Francisco, CA.