Sometimes a person comes along who leaves a lasting mark. Brett Mistak is one of those people, both as an artist and as a former student, who stood out early for his promise and dedication. In the late 1990s, while studying art at Carson-Newman College, now Carson-Newman University, Mistak demonstrated advanced artistic skills and talent that set him apart in the classroom. In the decades since, he has continued to refine those abilities, building a body of work rooted in careful observation, technical precision and a deep connection to place.
Mistak’s paintings often reflect the landscapes and wildlife of East Tennessee, particularly the Great Smoky Mountains. For many in the region, the mountains provide a sense of grounding and identity, and Mistak’s work captures that relationship through detailed, exacting compositions. His canvases come to life through a thoughtful treatment of paint, light, shape and color. While landscapes are a central theme, his subjects are varied, mirroring his wide-ranging personal interests and experiences.
A third-generation artist, Mistak came of age with a pencil in hand. As an art major and varsity football player in college, he expanded his natural abilities while taking on challenging new media. Oil painting eventually became his specialty. Known for his photorealistic approach, Mistak devotes hours of studio time to each project, focusing intently on small details such as the scale of a reptile or the filament of a feather. The complexity of blending colors and executing intricate brushstrokes is a challenge he embraces fully.
If art imitates life, Mistak’s work tells the story of extensive travel and close observation of the natural world. He has lived and traveled from Alaska to Africa, from Caribbean beaches to trout streams. Those experiences inform an artistic practice that includes photorealism, still life and contemporary pop art, as well as experimentation with various media and interpretations.
A native and resident of Maryville, Tennessee, Mistak continues to find inspiration close to home. He spends time fishing trout streams, exploring local caves and hiking regional trails. In 2020, he established the Brett Mistak Art Gallery + Studio at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a location that reflects both his subject matter and his connection to the area.
The gallery, located in the Shops at Trillium Cove at 107 Painted Trillium Way, features an open design and a casual, inviting atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to grab a coffee from a neighboring vendor and stop in for relaxed browsing and friendly conversation. The Shops at Trillium Cove host a range of artisans, from those with a green thumb to baristas and other crafters in between.
Mistak’s original artwork is featured and available for purchase in a variety of sizes and media. His art business has been designated a “Trusted Art Seller” by The Art Storefronts Organization, signaling a commitment to quality and value.
Find Brett at his gallery to greet visitors every day and most weekends from 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m., and by appointment. Brett is also a husband and dad of teenagers, and there may be times when he is called away from the gallery. For appointments, call 865-567-7023 and discover more information at BrettMistakArt.com.