There are over 450 species ofsharkthat roam the planet’s waters.
The Toronto-based artist has a multi-faceted creative practice that spans both painting and sculpture.
His diverse portfolio of work is greatly inspired by the environment of North America, specifically the Pacific Northwest.
Austin explores the mutability of the landscape as well as our tenuous relationship with it.
These surreal pictures depict great whites and orcas wandering urban and rural landscapes above water.
We recently had the chance to talk to Chris Austin about his series of shark paintings.
Read on for My Modern Met’s exclusive interview.
What is your background in painting?
I am a self-taught painter and illustrator who has always dabbled in different means of expression.
Is there something about sharks and sea creatures that fascinates you?
I have always been fascinated by the vast elusiveness of the ocean.
What do you attempt to achieve or express in each of your paintings?
How has your artistic practice changed over time (if it has)?
Its constantly evolving over time.
What is your most important artist tool?
Is there something you cant live without in your studio?
There are too many tools I cannot live without in the studio.
However, if I were to pick one, it would be my studio dog, Winston.
What is your typical work process for each work?
I begin with a lot of reference photo material research, followed by a digital mock-up.
Afterward, I sketch on paper, then paint to a surface.
How do you know when a work is finished?
When it tells me…sometimes it never tells me.
Which artists, or works of art in particular, inspire you?
I am constantly inspired by a lot of my peers.
What is the best artistic advice you’ve ever received?
Keep working, even if its no good.
Eventually, itll come through hard work and perseverance.
Never work for a dollar figure, you will always find a way to make money.
However, your creative energy may not always.
