BIOGRAPHY

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Born in Columbia, South Carolina where his artistic endeavors began, artist Curtis Phillips from an early age excelled at painting and drawing. Throughout his childhood he was enrolled in various art and piano classes. Upon graduation, he enlisted at the University of South Carolina and subsequently received a Bachelor of Arts degree. While attending art classes, he learned the art of printmaking from Professor Boyd Saunders. After college, Phillips took portrait lessons from Ted Gorka, a nationally renowned portrait painter known for the portrayal of the Mormon Church.

Deciding that some changes were necessary, the artist chose to move to Los Angeles to further his career. After one year and feeling disconnected with L.A. and decided to move back to his home state, South Carolina and taught art at a public school.  Feeling restless he relocated to New York City to further his career and to perfect his skills. He stayed and trained in The Big Apple for almost a year. “I learned more in my stay in New York City than at any other time in my career. That experience had a profound impact on my work.”

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Phillips currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina, an Abstract painter working in oil, watercolor, gouache, and pencil.  His artwork can be found in public and private collections throughout the United States. 

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ARTIST STATEMENT

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Nature and people inspire me the most. Nature provides a plethora of subjects and palettes. Spirituality and what that subject entails is awe inspiring. Subjects that really can't be understood by civilization intrigues me. Our limited knowledge as human beings and always questioning everything seems endless. Beliefs and habits and why all of society act a certain way motivates me on many levels. Science, the Ethereal, as well as Psychology are incorporated to certain works. Words and meanings often find their way into titles and explanations.

EDUCATION

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University of South Carolina   Bachelor of Arts

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