W.S. Cranmore
Milwaukie, OR
Artist at the intersection of Expressionism, Geometric Abstraction and Pop Art.
Message
“I feel every opportunity must be taken to draw the eye to the art of W.S. Cranmore.” Elvis Costello (Singer/Songwriter)
W.S. Cranmore’s artworks are known for their distinctive geometric patterns, bold lines and borders, and nontraditional composition. At the intersection of Expressionism, Geometric Abstraction and Pop Art, W.S. Cranmore’s artworks meld early modernist with later post-modernist influences. His art invites subjective interpretation, emotional introspection and personal appreciation, telling personal stories and re-imagining memories in a uniquely unconventional way.
To date, nearly 100 artworks by W.S. Cranmore are in private collections in 5 countries and 12 U.S. states. He has participated in group and solo exhibitions, auctions, live events, and more. Many notable names in the art and music worlds have praised and collected Cranmore’s work, including his musical hero, Elvis Costello.
“W.S. Cranmore has an amazing sense for composition and color. He presents us with beautifully designed images that are, not only inspiring, but reminiscent of architecture, industrial design, modern day technology, and computer motherboards. With a great awareness of contemporary art, these images display a masterful control, and are always exceptionally intriguing.” Lorena Malm, Curator at Affinity Art Group.
“Cranmore creates a sympathetic space for our internal and external emotional communication because he positions himself as a fellow traveler and not a guide.” John Crowther, Independent Art Critic.
Statement
The art I create is autobiographical. It’s a journal of times, events, locations, and experiences of my life to date. My compositions choose to explore the underlying beauty of cracks and blemishes, contrasting styles and colors, half finished ideas and overworked thoughts, rather than symmetry, balance, and pleasing aesthetics. I believe this is a reflection of a life of ups and downs and also a fascination with the physical deterioration I see around me. I consider it natural abstraction.
Music is an important component to the creative process evoking memories and experiences. The process starts with quiet visualization followed by initial painting to a music playlist. When I feel a particular song or music artist is connecting with the work I’m doing, I immediately switch to their music exclusively for the duration of that painting. Parts and sections of the painting are regularly destroyed and repainted, not because I consider the work to be bad, but because it feels necessary in order to achieve what I hope to.
It’s my hope that the viewer might pair my art with the music that influenced it. Listen to the music while taking in the work. Much like a wine and cheese pairing, I feel art and music go hand it hand, working together for a more ethereal experience.