Russ Wagner has been painting for over 15 years and now maintains a studio north of San Francisco in Point Richmond.

His work is inspired by years of study of the Masters including Van Gogh, Cezanne and Hopper. 

Known for his bright, fauve-influenced use of color, Wagner paints the “unseen” colors he perceives in both interior an outdoor scenes. His free brushstroke evokes a sense of motion that adds to the lively palette he creates. 

His current subjects are primarily “bodies in motion.” 

I am inspired by movement, strong color and candid interactions between people. Capturing that one small moment in time that holds so much emotion,” says Wagner.    

Wagner’s sense of craft can be seen in his exacting choice of canvas and high quality paints. His work is divided between commissioned pieces for which he works with his clients to develop the theme and content as well as a variety of outdoor and candid scenes.

Wagner received a bachelor's degree in finance from Arizona State University in 1987. After a successful career in financial sales, Wagner chose to devote his time to his true passion of painting life in motion.