Robert Wyland and Ruth Meyer - Two Of The Greatest Artists of Our Time

Picasso, van Gogh, da Vinci... These are only some of histories most renowned artists. Today their legacies can be found in museums, and are worth millions. But who are the great artists of our time? It's possible that today men and woman have been able to do even greater works than the masters of the past. Perhaps Ruth Meyer, and Robert Wyland can be counted among this group.

Ruth Meyer's depiction of Jerusalem, which was seven years in the making, could hardly be more special. During her visit, the artist stayed several days at the biblical Mount of Olives. But this visit there was not without conflict. The intefada (the Israeli/Palestine conflict) erupted in plain view from the artist's hotel balcony. The peace that many had been hoping for, in that part of the world, had just taken a violent step backward.

With her stay cut short, Ruth Meyer's ambition to paint Jerusalem would be put on hold. At the time, beginning such an undertaking may have been in bad taste. Her next project, completed in June 2000, was titled "I Love New York." Ruth Meyer must definitely receive a measure of praise for her work. Representatives of the Vatican soon sought her out. Before the passing of Pop John Paul II, Ruth had the privilege to bring to life an elaborate portrait of him.

Few artists of any time have been able to make a splash as large as Robert Wyland. The large scope of some of his works must be seen. Wyland became famous for his marine life murals, and is known for painting several life-sized whales on immense canvases. Any who have been to the Long Beach Arena (which can be seen here, in the middle of the page) can testify to the impressive vision that Wyland brings to life.

Wyland has painted on airplanes, has opened a hotel in his own name, and published books. Wyland is a conservationalist, and many of his works are dedicated to the preservation of marine life. Wyland plans to paint his last wall mural sometime before the 2008 Olympics. There is still so much for this artist to do, and with his creative stroke I'm certain the next project will be as special as those that came before.

My father was fortunate enough to know both of these artists, and purchase some of their works. Skill plays a large roll in making Ruth Meyer and Robert Wyland the influential artists that they have become. I think it is dedication, and a willingness to go to great lengths that will cement them in stone as great artists of our time.