Will Rafuse was born in Calgary, Alberta. After spending many years living on the Prairies he moved to Vancouver in 1986. He received a diploma in Graphic Arts and Illustration from Capilano College in North Vancouver and continued his education at Vancouver Community College, receiving a diploma in Computer Graphics and Multimedia. Intrigued by the works of Modigliani, Gauguin and Balthus, Will works mostly in oils and is known for his bright colors and the slightly animated twist of the subjects he paints. Aside from illustrating for a number of corporations, he has been a regular at "Painters' Corner" in Stanley Park, Vancouver. His art is in the collection of corporations and individuals around the world.
Although he was born in Calgary, Alberta, Will has been a resident
of Vancouver for 17 years. Despite his lifelong interest in
art, it was only in 1994 when Will decided to pursue his interest
in painting. Will began his professional painting career in
Stanley Park's Painter's Corner, not knowing that his colorful
characters will soon become a permanent fixture in the Vancouver
art scene and in both private and corporate collections worldwide.
His signature style can be recognized in movies and television
shows.
Working exclusively in oils, Will has the ability to make his
subject matter come alive with the use of stunning, bold colors,
an element that has become part of his signature style. His
art has a universal appeal to those who are looking to add a
light hearted, witty image to their environment. His work ranges
from loveable animals to animated characters to delectable pastries
and cocktails, but his trademark style remains unmistakable.
After graduating from Capilano College's Graphic Art and Illustration program in 1996, Will continued his work at Stanley Park until the year 2000. Soon after completing his education, the Robson Street Business Association selected Will to design the banners that adorned Robson Street from May to October of 1996. In 1997, his artwork penetrated the open edition poster market, when he signed a partnership with Canadian Art Posters. Since then, his collection of vibrant imagery has gained popularity worldwide, quickly making him one of CAP's top selling artists. In addition to his originals and open edition prints, Will's images have also been licensed for a variety of products including coasters, dish ware, textiles, decorative clocks, among others, and have remained in high demand in the licensing industry.
Though his schedule is always full, Will thoroughly enjoys contributing to the community and never fails to make time to support local and national non-profit organizations. Through the years, Will has donated original pieces to many of Vancouver's charities such as The Shooting Star Foundation, Loving Spoonful, and Canuck Place Hospice. Also, he has contributed artwork to help raise funds for American Express' "Taste of the Nation", fighting hunger in the community, the Ronald McDonald House, the Arizona Animal Welfare League and Robert Mondovi's campaign in support of Canada's Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Despite his tremendous success, Will maintains his down-to-earth and friendly nature that makes him a well respected and esteemed individual in all the ventures that he embarks upon. He continues to work hard at his craft and constantly strives for growth as an artist and as a person. In 2003 Will was nominated and has become a member of the "International Who's Who Historical Society."
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