Don Troiani (American, b.b. 1949)

Paintings

What is a Summary of Don Troiani’s Artwork, Style, and Background?

Don Troiani is a highly skilled painter and historian specializing in historical and military art. He is renowned for his realistic and precise depictions of significant moments in American history, with a particular focus on the American Civil War, the American Revolution, and other historical periods. Troiani's approach involves meticulous research, the use of original uniforms, weapons, and artifacts, and live models to ensure accuracy and authenticity in his paintings. Moreover, he is an avid collector and preserver of historical items and documents. He received art education at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and the New York Art Students League and has held diverse roles, including illustrator, curator, consultant, and author.

What Kind of Art Does Don Troiani Make?

Don Troiani's art is a masterful recreation of past events and scenes. His paintings are meticulously based on historical facts, eyewitness accounts, and personal stories, allowing him to capture the smallest details and emotions of the people, places, and objects from history. Troiani primarily employs oil paint on canvas or board as his medium of choice for creating paintings. Additionally, he produces prints, posters, and books based on his paintings, making his historical art accessible to a wider audience.

How Did Don Troiani Get Started?

Don Troiani's passion for art and history began in his childhood, inspired by his father, a World War II veteran and history enthusiast. Fascinated by the stories and images of the past, particularly the American Civil War, Troiani honed his drawing and painting skills using books and magazines as his guides. He later pursued formal art education at the prestigious Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and the New York Art Students League, learning from esteemed artists such as Arthur DeCosta, Daniel Greene, and Nelson Shanks. His career as an illustrator for magazines, books, and documentaries allowed him to further explore his historical interests, leading him to collect valuable historical items and documents related to his subjects.

Where Have Don Troiani’s Works Been Exhibited?

Don Troiani's exceptional artworks have been displayed in numerous esteemed museums and galleries across the United States, cementing his status as a prominent historical artist. Exhibition venues include the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C., the National Park Service in Gettysburg, the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, the Museum of the Confederacy in Richmond, the National Portrait Gallery in Washington D.C., and the West Point Museum in West Point. His works also hold a place in various public and private collections, including those at the White House in Washington D.C., the Pentagon in Arlington, the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C., the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, and the personal collection of George Lucas in San Francisco.

Who Influenced Don Troiani’s Style?

Don Troiani's distinctive artistic style draws influence from a wide range of artists and movements that have shaped his creative vision. Notable influences include Winslow Homer, Thure de Thulstrup, Frederic Remington, N.C. Wyeth, Norman Rockwell, Henri Lefort, Gerome, Felix Philippoteaux, Military Art, and Realism. Additionally, he holds admiration for contemporary artists like Mort Kunstler, Dale Gallon, Perry Adams, and Keith Rocco, whose contributions to the world of historical art further inspire and enrich his own artistic expression.