If you're ever in northern New Mexico, visit the town or Truchas. This small hamlet, nested in a valley between two mountan ranges is home to many artists and artisan and one of my favorite contemporary painters, eRic Luplow. The best time of year to go is in September when many of the Artists have their studios open to the public, eRic's being one of them. Visit the site for the High Road Art Tour.

When I first became aware of eRic's work I was at the Kerrville Folk festival about 10 or 12 years ago. My first impression was that I had stumbled on to another Ralph Steadman. But eRic is much more. I see Piccasso and Dali and many other modern artists, but in reality, eRic has an unmistakable style that's all his own.

Don't expect him to paint inside the lines, and if you ask him to draw something that is round, he'll likely give you a questioning look that implies that he has no clue as to what you've requested.

Visit hia website: eRic Luplow