By Amber Ford The Mountain Times
Long time Mt. Hood Villages resident and local artist Tom McGraw has become a staple within the art community with his creative collective works and unique pieces. Inspired by his love for travel, McGraw sees the beauty in the many places he’s visited. “I’ve travelled all throughout Western Europe, Mexico, Canada and Central America,” McGraw said. “During my travels I was inspired by museums, churches, various cities, people, athletics, music, landscapes, architecture and dive bars. Basically, I entrenched myself in the different cultures,” McGraw added.
A self taught artist, McGraw’s work is created in a variety of different ways. “I create paintings using mediums like ink, watercolor, acrylic, oil, gesso, wood stains and polyurethane,” McGraw said. “I also work on wood canvases and high quality watercolor paper,” McGraw added. McGraw’s demonstrations of his skill are not only seen on the different canvases and paper, but also hat design and wood sculpting as well. “I am currently working on a wood carving totem pole and also enjoy doing landscape art as well,” McGraw said.
While McGraw’s self taught techniques are an important part of the artist he is, studying the classics and the pieces that have transformed art history are also an important piece of his identity as a creator. “I’m inspired by the old masters like Picasso, Van Gogh and Monet,” McGraw said. “I also follow new artists, like Justin Bua and other artists on Instagram. Also one of our own locals – Seaberg Einarsson,” McGraw added.
Like his artistic peers, sharing the majestic and pristine views that residents enjoy daily in The Mt. Hood Villages, McGraw also finds his unique neighborhood to be a valuable source of inspiration for his creative visions. “Every day here on the mountain is scenically different,” McGraw said. “I take bits and pieces of my experiences and work them into painting,” McGraw added.
For anyone interested in viewing or purchasing McGraw’s work you can visit his Instagram account, tomm2316. McGraw welcomes messages and inquiries about the purchase of his current work and commissioned pieces as well.