Carl Bretzke is an acclaimed representational oil painter known for his masterful depictions of urban scenes, nocturnes, and plein air landscapes. A member of the prestigious Plein Air Painters of America since 2021, his work captures the subtleties of light and atmosphere with striking realism. The Washington Post has described Carl’s paintings as “simultaneously intimate and detached… The artist's unadorned style recalls Edward Hopper and The Ashcan School.” Carl’s artistic journey began alongside his academic pursuits—he holds an MD degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School and an undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado, where he also minored in Fine Art. He trained under renowned Plein Air Painters of America signature artist Joseph Paquet, refining his skills in composition and light. Awards & RecognitionWith an extensive list of accolades, Carl has been recognized in some of the most competitive plein air and fine art competitions. Some of his notable honors include:2025Best Nocturne – Lighthouse Plein Air2024Best of Show – Laguna Plein Air InvitationalPainting of Exceptional Merit – PleinAir Grand MaraisNocturne Demo – Plein Air Convention2023Best Nocturne – Lighthouse Plein AirPainting of Exceptional Merit – PleinAir Grand MaraisStage Demo – Plein Air ConventionNocturne Demo – Plein Air Live2022Best Landscape – Plein Air in the Smokies1st Place & People's Choice – LPAPA Less Is More Miniature ShowMain Stage Presentation & Demo – Plein Air Convention1st Place, Artist's Choice & Award of Excellence – Lighthouse Plein Air2021Best of Show – Laguna Beach Plein Air InvitationalBest of Show – Door County Plein Air InvitationalPainting of Exceptional Merit – Grand Marais Plein AirBest Figurative / Honorable Mention – Lighthouse Plein Air