About Casey Folks

Ever since I was a child I've had a burning desire to draw. I think being born and raised in Galena, Illinois, helped nurture that desire.  Galena is a small town in northwestern Illinois rich in historic and architectural charm. While growing up I would lose myself for hours upon end within the pages of my sketch book, drawing inspiration from my surroundings, music, literature, comics and friends. A number of the other kids I palled around with were also artists, and creative thinkers, as were many of their parents. I was regularly exposed to new ideas.  Upon graduating high school I studied art at the Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design in Denver, Colorado. I was surrounded by amazingly gifted people who drove me creatively and inspired me to new levels. I remember this being such an amazing time in my life.   As time went by I concentrated on the medium I enjoyed the most, which is pen and ink. Something about the meticulous and unforgiving nature of the medium highly appealed to me. The main medium in my pieces is acrylic & India ink.  Recently, I've begun incorporating acrylic paint and wash into the work. As for my subject matter, fantasy and mythological related themes are the ticket, focusing mainly on the human form with a little mother nature thrown in from time to time for good measure.  I strive for the characters in my work to have purpose, to be driven by meaning. Each has a story. Some more obvious than others.  I want the viewer to mentally interact with what they are seeing.  Perhaps there is something happening in their life, past or present, that enables them to establish an emotional connection with the character depicted in the scene. Being human is fraught with challenges. If I can bring a smile to someones face, make them reflect, or just feel some joy, then my art has accomplished something.  All of my work is traditional. Every mark you see in the piece was made by hand using either a pen or a brush. I am astounded by digital artwork that I see, but must admit, the medium is beyond me! I'm a member of local art organizations in my area, the Galena Cultural Arts Alliance, the Galena Center for the Arts, and All River Road Talent. I participate in several art fairs throughout the year as well as accept commission work.  I'm just a small town fella from the midwest who loves fantasy art!  I hope you enjoy viewing my work as much as I enjoy creating it. Warm Regards, Casey Folks