BARBED R

Kurt Ritterpusch
Artist. Warrior.

Bio: Welcome

ARTIST BIO

All About Barbed R

I grew up in Maryland, Illinois, Virginia and New Jersey. Graduated from American University in Washington, DC in 1992 with a Fine Art degree in Studio Art and a concentration in painting. Shortly after graduation I enlisted in the Army Reserve and was later commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Army Reserves following Officer Candidate School.

Shortly after completion of training, I returned to Arlington, Virginia became an Art Teacher in the Fairfax County Public School system. I taught Art, Photography, Art History and Graphic Design from 1994 through 2001. During the summers I would intern as a graphic designer at a local firm and work at the Fairfax County Art Institute.

All the while, I was an Army Reserve Officer. I taught my last day of classes on 11 September 2001 as I was called to active duty and remained on Active Duty until 31 December 2020 when I retired from the Army.

I was deployed four times. I spent two combat tours in Iraq and two combat tours in Afghanistan, receiving four Bronze Star medals. I was also decorated with the Legion of Merit. During those days of service to our nation art was never far from me as I sketched and drew frequently during those times.

Now that I am retired, I turn my focus toward painting and capturing nature. I created the name of the studio honor of my wife (Barb), my service in the Army (barbed wire) and my connection with Texas (a cattle brand name).

I paint to glorify God and magnify Christ.

Painting subjects

I am a figurative painter. (Plein air and studio) recently began portraiture.

Education

1992 BA: American University, Washington DC :Studio Art -Painting

2003 MA:Webster University, St Louis, MO: Business and Organization Security Management (not art :{ )

Teaching

1995-2001 Fairfax County Public Schools Art Teacher

1996-1999 Fairfax County Summer Art Institute

Oil Painters of America Member 2022

Outdoor Painter Society Member 2022

4th Annual Temple Treasures Juried Art Contest 1st Place (May 2022)