Vibrant colors and intricate details are the hallmark of JK Dooley’s watercolors. From scarred, deep-hued worn leather and faded denim to the sparkle of silver and gold in the sunlight, JK portrays western images with a unique perspective, encouraging the viewer to imagine what lies beyond the borders of paint and paper.

JK Dooley was drawn into the art world at an early age, inspired and encouraged by her mother, who was also a water colorist, and her father who truly believed JK could do anything she set her mind to.

Having grown up in the era of John Wayne & Gunsmoke then moving to Arizona while in college, it is no wonder that the main body of JK’s art reflects the ruggedness and colorful way of life that we associate with the Old West.

In an interview with Western Horseman Magazine, JK was asked to differentiate between the New West and the Old West. She replied, “it isn’t events that have shaped my image of the West, but the spirit of rugged individualism with which everyday events were and are pursued. That rugged spirit remains. “

JK says the people she meets while pursuing her art, “still work very hard, believe in God, love their country and each other.” Although some of their daily chores may have been made simpler by modern technology and better equipment, she still finds the values and beliefs that brought people out West in the first place remain solid today.

These same values and beliefs are evident in each of her paintings.

An associate member of Women Artists of the West, her award-winning watercolors can be found in collections across the United States and in Europe. She currently pursues her craft by attending rodeos throughout Arizona and the West, where she is continually inspired by the dramatic plays of light and shadow on saddles, boots, chaps and other cowboy array.

JK certainly hopes you enjoy viewing (and purchasing!) her images...and knows you'll understand it is illegal to reproduce them in any shape, manner or form without her written consent. Please don't steal her stuff.