Among the many inspirational and exotic features of the island of Kauai is long time resident, Craig Palmer’s art creations.
Palmer was surrounded by pop culture portraits in his parent’s home while growing up in LA. This influence, as well as LA’s surf & skate culture, led him to begin creating graffiti art at the age of 13.
“I try to keep it funky and not perfect,” states Palmer whose art features anything from license plates and street signs to police tape and diamond dust.
In 1989, Palmer moved to the island of Kauai for the surf. By the early 2000’s all of his surroundings and early influences came together allowing him to create pieces that you see in his art today.
“I like to get a reaction out of people,” states Palmer regarding the goal of his art.
Palmer can be found hopping on a plane fairly often, hoping to catch his next big wave. As a self-proclaimed thrill seeker, he travels to Tahiti, Bali, Western Samoa, and Mexico. He frequently travels to LA for inspiration and tends to revisit original style influences he grew up with.
When globe-trotter Palmer isn’t enjoying the surf you will find him snowboarding in Japan every winter. “The mountains call every so often and I’ve gotta go,” states Palmer.
Palmer’s piece, Modern Geisha, was inspired by his experiences in Japan.
Like most creative talents, Palmer states that his mood also inspires his pieces.
“If I’m feeling relaxed I will create a more tranquil piece but I also switch and design a chaotic piece when my mind is stimulated or I’m feeling impulsive,” states Palmer, “sometimes I may even turn a little bit of chaos into harmony depending on my mood.”
Palmer has not always been able to dive head first into his art as easily as he can today. Eighteen years ago, he found himself a single father slowing down his works for a bit while allowing himself the enjoyment of parenthood. He never lost his passion for creating art and continued to do so throughout the years with more to come.
Most recently, Palmer entered a piece titled Layla into the Kauai Society of Arts Show 2019. Out of 174 entries, his was one of the 74 pieces selected to be featured throughout the island in places such as the Lihue Airport and local libraries.
