Howard Friedland was born in New York City and showed an early aptitude for the arts. He attended the prestigious High School of Music and Art, where his artistic journey began in earnest. He went on to study graphic arts at The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science
and Art in Manhattan, one of the nation’s top schools for visual arts.
After college, Friedland began a successful career in advertising, serving as an art director at prominent agencies along Madison Avenue. In 1972, he relocated to Miami, Florida, continuing his work in advertising while rekindling his passion for fine art. He began studying oil and pastel painting at the Miami Art Center, attending night classes to refine his technique and rediscover his artistic voice.
Driven by a desire to fully immerse himself in the art world, Friedland moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico. There, he balanced agency work with a deepening commitment to painting, inspired by the region’s stunning landscapes and rich culture. In 1995, he moved to Taos, New Mexico—an iconic American art colony—where the dramatic scenery and vibrant artistic community profoundly influenced his work.
In 1997, Friedland met acclaimed watercolorist Susan Blackwood. Their connection was immediate and powerful, and within six months, he relocated to Bozeman, Montana, to be with her. They married soon after and began a remarkable creative partnership. Together, they nurtured their painting careers, earning numerous top awards and invitations to teach workshops across the globe.
Howard Friedland is known for his luminous landscapes and masterful use of color and light. His work is widely collected, and his influence as both a teacher and mentor continues to inspire artists around the world.
A Master Signature Member of both the Oil Painters of America and the American Impressionist Society, Friedland is also a Signature Member of the prestigious Plein Air Painters of America. As a former board member of the Oil Painters of America, his contributions to the art community extend far beyond his personal work, creating a lasting legacy of mentorship and artistic excellence.
Artist’s Statement
The challenge for me is always to see the world with fresh eyes and respond spontaneously to the beauty before me. When painting outdoors, the ever-changing light can make it difficult to hold onto that initial spark of inspiration. That’s why I strive to capture, as quickly and accurately as possible, the visual sensations that the subject evokes. I study color relationships intently and make notes or small studies on the spot to preserve that fleeting moment.
Back in my studio, I use these plein air studies as the foundation for larger, more developed works. I also take some photographs for reference, but I’m careful not to rely too heavily on them. Too much photographic detail can dilute the power of my first impression. I often turn to memory to recall the mood, light, and atmosphere I originally experienced — and aim to express that in the final piece.
While some artists prefer a tightly rendered, literal style, I choose to paint only enough to give the viewer a clear sense of the subject, then allow the rest to be suggested. When viewed up close, my paintings reveal a tapestry of colorful brushstrokes. As you step back, the strokes merge, and your eye completes the image. That transformation — where abstraction becomes clarity — is where the magic of painting lies for me. It invites the viewer to engage their imagination and become an active participant in the experience.