John Crum
Still Standing 12 x 12 acrylic
Salty Dawgs 24 x 36 acrylic
Anybody Home? 8 x 10 acrylic
The Giving Tree 30 x 30 acrylic
The Only Way 36 x 36 acrylic
Oh We May Get Wet 4 x 4 acrylic
Art that makes you smile!
We are excited to have back in La Petite Gallerie’s line up of artists the fabulous John Crum. He is an expressionist painter who captures the magic and beauty of the Lowcountry in acrylic. His whimsical representational figures, and gently surreal landscapes, invite you in to stop, take a closer look, and then smile.
In John's words:
"Naturally inspired by the surreal landscape of the Lowcountry and travels to the nearby mountains in the Highlands. My style blends serene realism with surreal elements and whimsy. My art explores themes of love, inner peace, and nostalgia, using bold brushstrokes, bright colors, and meaningful symbols to create visually striking and emotionally engaging images.
"I view storytelling as an integral part of the creative process, using narrative themes to bring coastal scenery to life in new and compelling ways. My artistic journey continues to be fueled by an unstoppable urge to create; painting is not simply a choice but a vital necessity. I dedicate extensive hours in the studio, nurturing ideas and allowing my work to develop organically.
"Through bold brushstrokes, bright colors, and thoughtful symbolism, my aim is to create paintings that are visually striking and emotionally resonant. A layered acrylic technique builds depth and dimension by beginning with wet negative colors and finishing with dry brushwork that reveals underlying layers. This approach invites you to explore my paintings up close and embark on your own magical journey. I take great pride in the personal connections my work fosters; hearing viewers and collectors express how his art makes them smile and what it means to them, it is a source of profound satisfaction and motivation.
"Through my work, I offer a joyful celebration of the human spirit and encourage viewers to see the world in a new, uplifting light."
John is a graduate of the Ringling School of Art, has been drawing inspiration from a diverse artistic community since 1973, and has developed a truly distinctive style. Within the Hilton Head / Bluffton community he is a member the Art Beyond Tradition Group, the Art League of Hilton Head, and regularly participates in exhibitions that highlight his exploration of nature through constant experimentation.
More of John's art can be seen at johncrum.art and instagram.com/johncrumart/. He can be contacted directly at johncrumart@gmail.com