Adam Houston
Adam Houston is an Athens, Georgia–based artist specializing in Contemporary Impressionism. Working primarily in oils, he creates both studio and plein air paintings inspired by the Southern landscape. After earning a BFA in Art from the University of Georgia, Adam spent 25 years in graphic design before transitioning to full-time painting in 2026. His work reflects the influence of Impressionist masters, focusing on light, color, and atmosphere to create an emotional connection to place. An associate member of the American Impressionist Society, Adam actively participates in Plein Air events and the regional art community throughout the Southeast.
Biography
Adam Houston is an Athens, GA-based artist specializing in Contemporary Impressionism. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding Southern landscape, he primarily works with oils, producing both studio and Plein air pieces. Since acquiring his first set of paints in 1993, Adam has been dedicated to capturing the natural beauty around him.
Holding a BFA in art from the University of Georgia, Adam’s formal training provided a solid foundation for his artistic expression. Transitioning from a successful 25-year career in graphic design to full-time painting in 2026, Adam brings a unique perspective to his art, influenced by his diverse professional background.
Adam’s work is deeply inspired by Impressionist masters, and he endeavors to channel their spirit, creating pieces that capture the transcendent qualities of the landscape and establish a deep connection between the viewer and the natural world.
An associate member of the American Impressionist Society, Adam actively participates in the art community and frequently engages in Plein Air events across the Southeast.
AWARDS & JURIED EXHIBITIONS
2025 – Thresholds: 2025 Reciprocal Juried Exhibition
2025 – Gallery Contract Award – Big Tiny Show – Knoxville, TN
2025 – Honorable Mention – Big Tiny Show – Knoxville, TN
2025 – 6th Annual Juried Small Works Show – Cassens Fine Art – Hamilton, MT
2025 – 1st Place, Georgia Color PaintQuick – Savannah, GA
2025 – American Impressionist Society, Associate Member Exhibition
2025 – Featured Artist, Georgia Color Plein Air – Savannah, GA
2025 – Golden Paint Foundation Award, OCAF Members Exhibit – Watkinsville, GA
2025 – Shain Gallery Up & Coming Invitational – Charlotte, NC
2025 – American Impressionist Society, Small Works Showcase – Fallbrook, CA
2024 – Rosemary Brush Award, North Carolina Plein Air Festival
2024 – Ampersand Award, North Carolina Plein Air Festival
2024 – Lyndon House 49th Juried Exhibition, Athens, GA
2023 – American Impressionist Society, All Member Online Exhibition
2023 – 1st Place, Georgia Color Plein Air PaintQuick – Eatonton, GA
2023 – 2nd Place, Georgia Color Plein Air – Eatonton, GA
2023 – American Impressionist Society, Associate Member Exhibition
Artist Statement
As an artist based in Athens, GA, my journey in American Impressionism is deeply intertwined with the Southern landscape that surrounds me. In my art, I aim to capture the fleeting moments of beauty in the natural world, offering viewers a chance to pause, reflect, and experience the transcendent qualities of the landscape. My hope is that my paintings serve as a bridge, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment and the timeless elegance it holds.