Simkins began drawing at an early age and started doing graffiti under name Craola. Graffiti art became his impetus for creating and gave him the confidence to paint large works. In addition, it taught him perspective, color theory and further developed artistic skills, which later translated into his work with acrylics. His outlandish dreamt-of characters are part of a fantasy sideshow, inspired by elements from pop culture, the old masters, nature, carnival kitsch and most importantly, a warped imagination. It is the careful weaving of these elements that makes Greg Simkins a sought after surrealist painter today.
Simkins’ work has been featured in numerous group exhibitions and has successfully sold out five solo exhibitions. His art is seen in a wide variety of industries from clothing to video games and has also come to life in the form of toys. His client/collaboration list includes Disney, Mattel, Upper Playground, Juxtapoz, To Die For, Vans, Converse, AFI, Saosin, Gym Class Heroes, Pennywise, STRANGEco, Ningyoushi, Kid Robot, Zero Friends, Epitaph, Dark Horse, Iron Fist and Pulse International.
“Seeing Things” features new paintings and will be on display in the lower level of the FIFTY24SF Gallery from February 5 – 26, 2009.
Greg.Craola.Simkins:
Opening Reception: Thursday, 2.05.09 from 7 PM to 9 PM
Gallery Hours: Tuesday–Sunday from 12–6 PM and by appointment
Address: 252 & 248 Fillmore Street, San Francisco, CA 94117
