Artist Spotlight: Craig McInnis

“Blind Patriotism (ruffled feathers)” by Craig McInnis. 5’x4′ Acrylic. Now hanging at Continuum WPB Arts Fair.

Tell us about yourself.
I am a multifaceted artist with a career balancing fine and commercial art. I work in many mediums especially when it comes to commissioned work. I enjoy Acrylic the best, but I will reach for whatever medium is needed to complete the work to it’s fullest potential. My art can best be described as bold, edgy, fun, surreal and often thought and conversation provoking.

What is your style and preferred medium?
Pop, Surreal. Acrylic.

Tell us about your creative process.
All of my works start by swimming around my head; sometimes for days, other times, mere minutes. The next step is always my large format sketchbook. This is where the process of realizing the concept occurs. Though often difficult to sometimes see and draw what I have imagined, this step is crucial. After I get a solid drawing I move the concept to Photoshop for cleaning, adjusting, the addition of values and sometimes color. Then the art moves to it’s final home, a canvas or a wall. My painting and illustrating techniques are not a secret by any means, but often difficult to quickly describe. My process has been the same for a little while but it is always evolving.

What projects are you working on?
I am finishing an exterior mural at a restaurant in West Palm Beach and about to begin another commercial mural in Boynton Beach. I am simultaneously co producing an annual pop up gallery called CONTINUUM at City Place.

Are you working on a series?
I am currently working on a series of surreal social commentary pieces.

What inspires you to create?
I must create. If I do not make art almost daily it changes my mood. The world around me and the things I find difficult to comprehend or digest often get the ideas flowing.

What did you achieve in 2017?
I grew my business, expanded my artistic knowledge and became a better teacher.

What are your plans for 2018?
I am seeking artistic management to foster my fine art career. I am also constantly working on strengthening my existing business relationships while searching for new clientele.

When/where can we see your art in January?
CONTINUUM Pop up in City Place / Lot 23 Gallery 550 Northwood Road / Cafe Centro Northwood Road / Brewhouse Gallery Lake Park

Do you teach? Where?
Lot 23 / Center for Creative Education / Armory Art Center / Easel Art / Private Instruction

As an artist what is your most essential tool? Why?
Networking is the make or break for a freelance artist. If I do not keep my finger on the pulse, meet new people, and make things happen, my career will stall.

Recommend a spot for art-goers to catch a bite to eat, or simply hang out after walking the art shows.
Harold’s Coffee, Cafe Centro, Brewhouse Gallery, Kelsey Theater, Brick and Barrel

Studio: Lot 23, 550 Northwood Rd., West Palm Beach, FL

Website: craigmcinnis.com

Social Media: facebook.com/craigartist