Program Type:
Arts & Culture, Equity & Anti-Racism, Kids & Families, Multicultural, Students Grades 6-8, Students Grades 9-12Program Description
Event Details
From the artist
"A few years ago, I took a trip to Kenya, I went on a safari to the Maasia Mara, it was very informative and the landscape was breathtaking—as were the wildlife. I got inspired to paint scenes that I saw. I love to paint using acrylic on canvas, and working with charcoal. I wanted to depict in realistic and impressionistic animals and their environment. I’ve also been producing drawings of African American musicians using pencil and charcoal."
—Clifford Phillips
Art Exhibit Reception, Thursday, October 3, 6:30-8 pm: Meet the artist and enjoy light refreshments.
About the artist
Clifford Gerald Phillips is a testament to the transformative power of art. From the tender age of 12, when his observant aunt recognized his raw talent and enrolled him in a summer program at the prestigious Art Institute of Chicago, Clifford’s journey into the world of art began. This early exposure was the catalyst for a lifelong pursuit of artistic excellence, crafting a unique style that resonates with the depth of his experiences and the breadth of his skills across various mediums.
An accomplished artist, Clifford—or Cliff, as he warmly invites us into his world—has not only mastered the technical aspects of painting and drawing but also the ability to infuse his creations with a profound sense of narrative and theatricality. His passion for storytelling, kindled in childhood and nurtured through years of performing for an audience of family and friends, now finds expression on canvas and paper. Whether through the lush, vibrant landscapes of the Maasai Mara captured in acrylics or the stark, emotive power of black and white drawings in pencil and charcoal, Clifford’s work invites viewers to embark on a visual journey that transcends the ordinary.
Clifford’s artistic vision is a celebration of nature’s majesty, the rich tapestry of humanity, and the diverse cultures that adorn our world. His travels and personal experiences are deeply embedded in his work, offering a window into the soul of the places and people he encounters. With each brushstroke, he weaves tales of beauty and diversity, aiming to enchant and inspire those who come across his art.
Clifford was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago and has been a resident of Oak Park for the past 22 years. He credits his successes to God, self-discipline, and his family's support.