Art Bio

Diane Gore, a Durham-based artist, masterfully captures the awe-inspiring beauty of nature in her expansive, impressionistic acrylic paintings. Her work is deeply influenced by her passion for the outdoors, which has been shaped by memorable hikes along the Eno River and through the North Carolina mountains, including the renowned Blue Ridge Parkway. Diane creates her vibrant pieces both in her home studio and en plein air, immersing herself fully in the landscapes she loves.

Immersing herself in these natural wonders, Diane is not merely a spectator but a keen observer, capturing fleeting moments of beauty which she translates onto her canvas with bold brushstrokes and a unique blend of realism and abstraction.

Diane's passion for nature stems from her upbringing in the unspoiled landscapes of Fort Myers, Florida, during the vibrant sixties—a time before rampant development altered the scenery forever. It was at the age of ten that Diane's artistic journey began under the tutelage of Gale Bennett, where she first explored the expressive possibilities of acrylic painting. From Bennett, she imbibed the techniques of broad brushstrokes and the nuances of impressionism, shaping her distinctive artistic style.

Her pursuit of artistic excellence led her to National Cathedral School in Washington, DC, and later to Duke University, where she pursued a double major in art and sociology. Under the mentorship of Sheila and Vernon Pratt at Duke's Art Annex, Diane honed her skills, delving deeper into her passion for painting. After graduating from Duke, inspired by the mesmerizing stained glass of the National Cathedral, Diane ventured into the realm of stained glass artistry, learning under the guidance of George Danser. Her paintings and glass creations soon found acclaim, showcased in solo exhibits and coveted by collectors, including Gallery C in Raleigh, NC, where her work found a permanent place in the gallery's private collection.

Throughout the years, Diane's artistic journey intertwined with her roles as a mother and educator. As a teacher and an artist Diane taught stained glass at Duke’s Art Center. She also taught Language Arts at Durham School of the Arts, where she infused her classroom with art, making learning a joyful and accessible experience for her students.

Even amidst her teaching career, Diane never abandoned her true calling—painting. Solo exhibits in local venues and the continuous exploration of impressionistic landscapes kept her artistic flame alive. In 2022, Diane bid farewell to her teaching career, embracing retirement as an opportunity to delve deeper into her artistic passion.

Her paintings serve as windows to a world of tranquility and wonder, inviting viewers to pause, breathe, and revel in the magnificence of the natural world. Through her art, Diane aspires to spread the profound sense of well-being that nature bestows upon us, touching hearts and minds with the timeless beauty of the world around us.