Creativity Without Limits: Craig McInnis on Murals, Mentorship, and Community Art
Artigras Podcast Season 2: Episode 1 Recap
Welcome to Season 2 of the Artigras Podcast, where we explore the vibrant arts and culture scene of Palm Beach County! Hosted by local painter Sarah LaPierre, this episode features multi-talented artist Craig McKinnis, a muralist, illustrator, creative director, and musician known for his work across South Florida.
Craig McKinnis: A Life in Art
Craig McKinnis has had an eclectic career spanning multiple disciplines. From touring with bands to painting large-scale murals and designing haunted houses, his journey has been anything but conventional. One of the most surprising aspects of his career has been his involvement in creating haunted attractions—a passion he never expected to develop.
Artistic Influences and Early Inspirations
Growing up in a creative household, Craig was exposed to music and visual arts from an early age. His mother was a skilled illustrator, and he was surrounded by stories of musicians in his family. Though he initially planned to become a cartoonist, his path took a turn after attending art school at the now-defunct Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale.
Mural Work and Public Art Contributions
Craig has left his mark across Palm Beach County through murals at locations like:
Kapow in West Palm Beach
The Cultural Council of Palm Beach County
Halau
The Guanabanas Sandwich Shop
His most ambitious mural, "Interconnected" at the Cultural Council, represents community, connectivity, and the relationship between people and nature. This large-scale piece was both a technical and artistic challenge, reinforcing Craig’s growth as an artist.
The Peach Art Collective & Community Engagement
Craig plays a pivotal role at The Peach Art Collective, a creative hub in West Palm Beach featuring artist studios, a restaurant, and monthly art walks. As a mentor, he leads Brass Tacks, a weekly artist discussion group that fosters collaboration and growth among creatives.
Fright Nights and Theatrical Artistry
For over 22 years, Craig has been involved with Fright Nights at the South Florida Fairgrounds, where he serves as Creative Director. Designing haunted houses and performing as a costumed character has enhanced his artistic toolbox, from special effects makeup to foam carving and set design.
Balancing Commercial and Fine Art
Navigating between commercial work and personal artistic expression, Craig has honed a disciplined approach to creativity. His latest series, "Passion Language," showcases bold, colorful portraits infused with hidden glyphs and messages. These pieces will be on display at ArtiGras this year.
Advice for Emerging Artists
Craig encourages young artists to embrace their passion despite societal skepticism. He emphasizes the importance of:
Finding a mentor and networking within the local art scene
Utilizing resources like the Cultural Council and No More Starving Artists Foundation
Staying persistent and disciplined in honing one’s craft
Where to See Craig’s Work
Craig’s work can be viewed in person at Studio 3 at The Peach Art Collective or online at CraigMcKInnis.com and on social media at @CraigMcKInnisStudios.
Final Thoughts
Palm Beach County is rich with artistic opportunities, and Craig highlights the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County as a vital resource for artists and art enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, immerse yourself in the area’s thriving arts scene!
Thank You to Our Sponsors
A special thanks to the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County for supporting the Artigras Podcast and fostering artistic growth in the community. See you next time for another inspiring conversation!