Born in 1971 in San Bernardino, California, and raised in the vibrant Atlanta area, Craig Alan's journey into the world of art is a testament to his unwavering passion and extraordinary talent. From early childhood to becoming a globally recognized artist, Craig's artistic odyssey has been a remarkable one, marked by creativity, dedication, and a unique vision that captivates the world.
Early Beginnings and Creative Drive
Craig Alan's creative spark ignited at a tender age when he discovered the joy of expressing himself through art. Like many aspiring young artists, his early canvas included his parents' walls, embellished with crayon masterpieces. By the age of 7, it became evident that Craig possessed a remarkable capacity for detailed visual interpretation. His artistic journey had begun.
A Scholar-Artist
As Craig continued to nurture his artistic talents, he excelled in an introductory drawing class at school. Determined to pursue a formal art education, he found himself at the University of Mobile, Alabama, on a soccer scholarship. It was during this period that Craig's artistic journey took a significant turn.
In his first summer at college, he enrolled in a pottery class, and here, the proverbial light bulb switched on in a rejuvenating glow. Learning became a source of enjoyment, propelling him into the scholastic limelight. To support his education, Craig ventured to New Orleans on weekends, creating portraits for passersby on the streets. It was here that he set original rates, which by today's standards are astonishingly modest – $15 for charcoal portraits and $30 for watercolor creations. This endeavor not only helped perfect his ability to replicate the human figure but also provided him with a sense of economic autonomy.
Diverse Influences and Artistic Evolution
Craig's academic focus on studio art was complemented by a minor concentration in theater, further diversifying his artistic craft. His studies included makeup and set design, adding layers of expertise to his repertoire. This fusion of disparate influences and media is visibly apparent in all of Craig's works, which showcase a deep understanding of the human form and the vibrant world it inhabits.
A Journey into the Art World
Craig earned an area award for academic excellence, and his talent stood out in the university's most prestigious exhibition, “Art with a Southern Drawl.” Out of 1,600 submissions, one of Craig's pieces was chosen, a testament to his burgeoning reputation as a talented artist.
During his time as a student, Craig also gained experience in framing art while working part-time in a small frame shop. A few months later, a coworker pointed him in the direction of Deljou Art Group in Atlanta. He was hired and spent four years pioneering the establishment of the framing department. However, it was his unwavering passion for art that eventually led him to join the league of other artists in the studio.
A Prolific Career
Craig Alan's artistic journey is a culmination of textbook artistic knowledge and a keen aesthetic sense that has evolved from a “slow and studied” application to a “fast and free of precise thought” approach. His art collections span a wide spectrum, encompassing abstract expressionism and haunting graphic realism. Each piece is a reflection of his unique vision and artistic brilliance.
The Populus Series: A Stroke of Inspiration
Among Craig's many celebrated series, the Populus collection holds a special place. The inspiration for this series struck while he was on a balcony overlooking Orange Beach, Alabama. As he observed patrons enjoying a wedding party, something remarkable occurred. They seemed to form the shape of an eye where they stood, a moment of serendipity that would shape his artistic journey.
Craig describes his creative process as beginning with a simple question, “What if?” This question sparks alternate imagery, surfaces, effects, and results. Inspiration comes from both the past and the present, blending like a bolt of lightning. Since that epiphany, Craig's Populus series has grown to encompass dozens of iconic figures from Marilyn Monroe to Michael Jackson, each piece capturing the essence of its subject in a captivating and unique way.
A World of Achievement
Craig Alan's artistic prowess has not gone unnoticed. His work has found year-round homes in over 15 galleries across major U.S. cities, more than 40 galleries in England, 9 galleries in Germany, and galleries in Canada. His art is sought after by private collectors and prominent figures alike.
His accolades extend to the grand stage of major art fairs, including the Palm Beach Show, Scope, Art Silicon Valley, and Context Art Miami. Notably, his Populus portrait of Senator Harry Reid was presented in the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., a testament to the impact of his art on the political and cultural landscape.
Inspiring Creativity
Craig Alan is deeply humbled by the way his art inspires creativity in various forms, from commercials to advertisements. He believes that art should be responsible for its purpose – to inspire and enhance the world around us.
To aspiring artists, Craig offers words of encouragement, urging them to be themselves and follow their artistic instincts, regardless of external advice. He echoes the wisdom of his Pepaw: “Don't ever quit.”
Craig Alan's artistic journey is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and resilience. From his early days with crayons to becoming a globally recognized artist, Craig's story is one of unwavering dedication and boundless artistic brilliance.
His art transcends boundaries and continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Each piece is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for creativity and the enduring power of art to inspire, provoke thought, and enhance our lives.
For those captivated by Craig Alan's artistry, the opportunity to own a piece of his original art or acquire Craig Alan prints for sale is a chance to bring his unique vision and creativity into their own lives. Craig Alan's journey is an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the limitless potential of the human spirit and the enduring impact of art on the world.
Explore Craig Alan original art or prints for sale at Royal Street Fine Art, or call 970-920-3371.
