"I choose to paint what is beautiful and meaningful, knowing that this act of celebrating and communicating the beauty in this world has the power to uplift and inspire."

 American Contemporary artist Paula Holtzclaw has gained a national reputation for her ability to capture the drama of nature on canvas. Widely known for her luminous landscapes, these works reflect a deep connection to unspoiled nature, capturing atmosphere, mood and light.  Her still life paintings blend an impressionistic flair with classical realism influenced by her love of the Old Masters’ works. Growing up in the southeastern United States, Holtzclaw was surrounded by the natural beauty that would later inspire much of her artwork. She has carved a niche in the art world through her masterful use of color, light and composition.

From an early age, Holtzclaw exhibited a propensity toward the arts along with an appreciation for nature.  Influenced by her artist Grandmothers, she was immediately captivated and introduced to the world of creating paintings on canvas.  Holtzclaw remarks “To this day, that wonderful smell of oil paints and mediums take me back to early childhood memories. Memories that have become more cherished with the passing of time. Creating art seemed to always be a part of her life.  During a career in Ophthalmology which spanned over two decades, Holtzclaw still carved out time to paint, putting miles of brushstrokes to the canvas.  Following several successful years of gallery representation, she transitioned to full-time painting in 2002. Holtzclaw’s dedication to her craft and continuous pursuit of artistic growth have made her a respected figure among her peers.

In addition to her artistic achievements, Holtzclaw enjoys serving as entry and awards juror for regional and national exhibitions. She is passionate about mentoring emerging artists and believes in giving back to the art community at large.  Actively involved in many art organizations, she is always ready to lend a helping hand. Holtzclaw served on the Executive Board of American Women Artists from 2012 – 2019, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, dedicated to the advancement of women through the arts.

In addition to numerous solo shows, Holtzclaw’s paintings have been collected and exhibited nationally as well as internationally. Museum venues include the Bowers Museum, Haggin Museum, Gilcrease Museum, Booth Western Art Museum, and the Tucson Desert Museum.  Paula has been the recipient of notable awards including: 2^nd Place Award NOAPS Small Works Show 2025, Reys Gallery Award ARC Art Renewal Center 2025, Award of Excellence Oil Painters of America  2024 and  2023, Award of Excellence American Women Artists National 2024, 2023, 2019,  Award of Excellence and Award of Merit NOAPS 2023, Fine Art Connoisseur Award Women Artists Of the West 2023, President's Award  Women Artists of the West 51st National Exhibition 2021, Third Place- Master's Division Women Artists of the West National 2021, 2020, 2019, The F & M Bank Purchase Award, American Women Artists National 2018, First Place, Nautical Show, Salmagundi Club, New York, NY, 2017, Best Landscape, NOAPS "Best of America" National 2016, Best In Show, Women Painters of the SE Exhibition, 2015, and Gold Medal- American Women Artists National 2013.

Holtzclaw’s work invites quiet reflection, preserving the beauty and spirit of the natural world for generations to come.

"The Artist is nothing without the gift, but the gift is nothing without work".     Emile Zola