Howard Rees’s (1941-) favorite place to be is at the end of a paint brush, whether it be in his studio in the California Gold Country or capturing a scene in a European Village.

His lifelong interest in art led him to the Art Center College of Design, in Los Angeles, where he earned his Bachelor in Fine Arts Degree in 1964.

Howard accepted a position with Ford Motor Company in England. While he was there he became intrigued with the “Old World” atmosphere that shows in his paintings today. After leaving England he continued to work with Ford in Detroit, designing the ever popular Mustang line. Cold, long, Michigan winters drove him back to California and to The Mattel Toy Company where he designed many of the red line era “Hot Wheels” cars.

In 1975 he chose to focus totally on his love of painting, and since that time has developed his career as a full time Artist. Today he paints with equal proficiency in both watercolor and oil, and loves the unique challenges each medium presents. His subject matter extends to Americana, local Gold Country scenes, intimate European street studies and magnificent vistas.

Howard conducts fun-filled, informative workshops in his studio, and “Plein Air” classes throughout the United States and Europe.