Carl McGrady

"Scenic Expressions"

reception Saturday January 12, from 6-9 pm
view opening photos

January 12 through February 16

A life long student, appreciator and collector of the arts. Studied at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, University of Chicago and Sophia University, Tokyo, Japan. He was influenced by the Ukiyo-e Masters and mentored by great Japanese Artists as Unichi Hiratsuka and Shiko Munakata, Japan's Masters of black and white Modern Japanese Prints.

An art background enhanced his business endeavors within the international hospitality, real estate, insurance and investments fields. Carl's appreciation for art started in Butler, PA continued in Chicago, New York, Japan, Hong Kong, Honolulu, Napa, Ojai (CA) and Miami. In addition, he has spent extensive time in Canada, Europe, and Caribbean/Latin America. Japan has been the greatest single influence. The Japanese are ageless in spirit while continuing to study and develop throughout their lives.

In regards to painting, the artist is a late bloomer and believes as the Japanese, that it is never too late.

"Having lived art throughout my life, I have developed a seasoned and experienced eye, it is a great time to express myself. I was never ready to paint. Now, I am! It is like writing an autobiography and having something to say. Painting is my exercise to the soul. I hope that others will enjoy my work and use it as a reminder to look beyond the frame.

Art is everywhere and it is how we look at things within our environment. Scenic and Nature Scenes are my favorites; however, I also enjoy Cityscapes, Nudes, Still Life and new series of Angels. The use of black and white and strong patterns is influenced from the early Modern Japanese Woodblock Masters. The bold strokes are of the Sumie Artists in Japan and China. These techniques are fused into western style modern oils that give depth and texture."

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