Margaret Skiles

About Margaret Skiles

Margaret Skiles is an accomplished artist based in Yuba City, California, whose creative journey has been as diverse and dynamic as her life experiences. Born in California and raised on the East Coast, Skiles' artistic inclinations were nurtured from a young age. Her professional career as a plastic surgeon, deeply rooted in aesthetics, has significantly influenced her approach to art, where precision and an appreciation for beauty are paramount. Now retired, she dedicates her time to exploring the intricate world of visual arts through photography and oil painting.

Skiles' artistic style is marked by a profound realism, especially evident in her oil paintings. She meticulously captures the delicate forms and vibrant hues of nature, drawing inspiration from the boundless diversity found in the natural world. Her process involves working from her own photographs, which serve as a foundation for her detailed still lifes and floral compositions. Utilizing oil paint on wood panels, Skiles brings a tactile depth and richness to her work that invites viewers to engage with the subtleties of her subjects.

Her journey into photography began in the traditional darkroom under the guidance of her father, evolving into the digital realm where she skillfully embraces its modern challenges and rewards. Her photographs, printed on archival paper, are a testament to her ability to blend traditional techniques with contemporary methods. Skiles' commitment to artistic growth is evident in her continual pursuit of education, most notably through an intensive five-week course in Florence, Italy, where she honed her skills in drawing, painting, and art history.

Margaret Skiles' works have graced numerous exhibitions, including prestigious local venues like the Crocker Museum, Sparrow Gallery, and The Artery. As she continues to develop her craft, her long-term aspiration is to achieve a level of success where her art is self-sustaining. Her portfolio, a vibrant exploration of nature's beauty, can be explored further on her website, ArtByMargaretSkiles.com. Through her art, Skiles invites audiences to appreciate the intricate beauty of the world around them, captured with the skill and sensitivity of a seasoned artist.