Craig Merchant: Meet the Artist
I am a West Michigan based artist focused on creating art inspired by nature. I grew up on the East side where I studied 2D art at the University of Michigan. I was inspired by a few 3D classes prior to graduation and now my work ranges from paintings to large-scale outdoor installations. I enjoy combining multiple mediums to depict the interactions between people and the natural environment.
Q: How did you get involved with Lions and Rabbits?
A: I heard about Lions and Rabbits through some of my artist friends. I started following them on social media and I was super excited when I saw a request for proposals for an outdoor park project at Briggs Park. I put together my proposal which ended up leading to my first partnership with Lions and Rabbits!
Q: Run us through your creative process: Medium? How do you start, flow and finish?
A: Most of my work is mixed-media. For 2D pieces, I like to combine acrylics, colored pencils, collage, and anything I can find to add some texture. For 3D pieces, I typically work with wood, resin, clay, and found materials. Often times I'm inspired by a single object or experience. I start by writing down my thoughts and sketching things out. I usually go through a lot of trial and error before a piece is finished, but I really enjoy the process of trying different things and showing some of the journey in the finished product.
Q: What themes/ideas are highlighted in your work? Intentions?
A: My work often depicts interactions between people and nature. My hope is to create unique environments that might make the viewer see the world in a new way.
Briggs Park Installation
Q: Can you share more about how your career as an artist began?
A: I've always been a creative person and I've had great support from my family. College opened my eyes to new techniques and new opportunities. After I moved to the Grand Rapids area, I sought out opportunities that I thought would be a good fit for my art. I created some great relationships with other artists and art organizations along the way.
Q: What obstacles/struggles have you encountered throughout your career as an artist? Or challenges you face within your creative process
A: At one point in my art career, I struggled with the question, "Do I create things that I know I can sell, or do I create things that make me happy?" Ultimately, I learned to stay true to myself and my style.
Q: Who/what are your biggest inspirations that play a key role in your work?
A: Nature is my biggest inspiration. I like to distort the scale of different creatures and depict them in unique environments. I hope this connects the viewer to nature in a new way.
RAD Women A-Z 2019
Q: What mistakes have you made? What did you learn from them?
A: My biggest mistakes usually come from rushing into a project before thinking through what I'm trying to convey. I try to spend a lot of time thinking about the meaning of the piece before I actually start creating. I do this by writing down my thoughts and sketching whatever comes into my mind until I feel really connected and inspired.
Q: Do you feel supported by your community as an artist? In what ways could you feel more supported?
A: I feel very supported! I'm able to create things that make me happy and share them with the community. I'm thankful for the relationships I've made with fellow artists and art organizations that have helped me grow.
Q: What is the function of artists in society? What does being an artist mean to you?
A: I think artists help to inspire. Artists often express very personal things through their art. This can connect to people in transformative ways that the artist may never know.
Barricades 2021
Q: Describe a moment when you felt most proud of yourself
A: I was very proud to complete my installation at Briggs Park. I experienced some challenges throughout the project - especially after breaking my foot halfway through - but I was able to overcome those challenges and now have a permanent art installation that I get to share with the community.
Q: What are you currently working on or looking forward to?
A: I am always thinking about what's next! I'm currently working on two different installations that I plan to submit for some upcoming opportunities.
Q: Finish this sentence…”Artists are _____________”
A: interesting, confusing, and important
Q: BONUS: If you could chose any superpower, what would it be? 🦸🏻♀️⚡️🌀 The ability to fly!
Follow more of Craig Merchant’s work on www.craigrhyan.com
Facebook: @craigrhyan
Instagram: @craig_rhyan_art
Thank you for tuning into this week’s Meet the Artist, be sure to checkout more artist stories every week on our blog!
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