Duane Brown

Smoke, Oil Painting

2025

Artist Comments
A man lights his cigarette and enters a moment of pause, stress relief, and contemplation. The contrast of light and shadow on his face highlights his concentration and perhaps inner conflict. Subtle nuances of his expression speak volumes beyond words. This scene evokes a somber and reflective mood, fostering a connection that feels both personal and universally human.

About the Artist
Artist Duane Brown captures everyday life with a focus on intimate, often overlooked moments. Originally from Northern California and now based in New Mexico, Duane began as a photo-realist but found new energy in expressive painting after years of working as a caricature artist. “I found the freedom of improvisation in my brushstrokes to be a more rewarding way to express my vision,” shares Duane. His scenes often unfold instinctively, drawing references from live models, 3D software, personal photos, and even paused frames from old movies. Duane paints from a home studio, where he can easily respond to bursts of inspiration day or night. Outside of painting, he reads newspapers and periodicals aloud for the New Mexico Commission for the Blind—a role that adds unexpected meaning to the visual nature of his work.

Words that describe this painting: smoke, cigarette, portrait, retro, man, Americana, people, pop, oil painting, beige

Smoke
Duane Brown
Oil painting on stretched canvas
Finished black edges
Ready to hang
One-of-a-kind
Signed on front
2025
16 in. h x 24 in. w x 1.5 in. d
2 lbs. 0 oz.