Rufus Chalmers is a prize winning
artist specializing in portraits of people engaged in their ordinary pursuits.
Rufus was born in a small town in North Carolina and started drawing at an early age. By the time he reached high school, he knew he was gifted with talent.
While he has always had a passion for art, it was not until he retired from business and moved to the central coast of California in 2003 that he was able to pursue his talent full time.
Traveling in New Orleans, Chalmers watched an artist using white and gray pastels on a black background to create art reflecting the New Orleans jazz scene.
Inspired to try the technique, he went on to create the soulful portrayals that he produces today. Largely self-taught, Chalmers has captivated many and continues to experiment with his technique and style.
His most recent series in shades of gray depicts famous jazz artists in the act of making the music that has thrilled an transported millions.
See Rufus interview on KVIE Sacramento Public Television. (click here)