Statement
As a draftsman, I seek to bring emotional concepts to life. A mix of personal experiences and outside sources fuel this ongoing endeavor. Specific historical references prove to be ideal origin points for my drawings. For example, Greek and Roman antiquity, World War One, the Middle Ages, philosophical concepts, and so on. Historical concepts and movements like Humanism and Romanticism also convey inspiration that can be seen in my work. Typically, undesirable emotions dictate each piece, melancholy and solemn themes are laced throughout. Every image is created with the intent of the viewer being able to find and apply their own meaning for the piece within themselves.
Within my artistic practice, I love to explore various mediums but use graphite almost exclusively. The precision and workability paired with the stark contrast it offers against the white of the paper are huge contributing factors in the work I conduct. Thus, elevating pencil to my primary medium. Most of my work incorporates the human figure in some form or another. The body is a truly fascinating and beautiful creation in and of itself. Contemporary artists such as Henrik Udalen and Jono Dry, as well as classical artists such as Caravaggio and Michelangelo prove to be valuable inspiration in the work I create regarding not only the human figure, but also their technical applications. That said, my piece “Déjà vu” optimally encompasses all aspects I have shared from a technical, emotional, historical, and inspirational standpoint. The image depicts a fantastical moment between two historically set individuals in a very dramatic and romantic scene.
My mind is always at work thinking up various stories and scenarios through a historical, fantastical, or contemporary lens seeking imagery and context for my next possible project. Depicting emotion through the human figure presents a welcoming challenge I thoroughly enjoy. All of which is done in hopes to expand my boundaries as a creative.
Biography
Conor is a practicing artist currently pursuing his bachelor’s degree in art at Black Hills State University. He is also working toward a degree in history. Growing up on a ranch in Southern Wyoming, he found his way to the Black Hills through athletics, where he is now a member of the BHSU track and field team. McGraw accredits this passion for athletics as the source of fascination for depicting the human form in his artistic practice. Throughout his time in Spearfish, McGraw has had several works of art featured at the Mathews Opera House gallery, including the work entitled “At Bay”. This piece won the best of show title at the 2022 Mathews Community Art Exhibition. Also, “O Icarus of the Fearless Flight”. The drawing won first place in the adult 2D division in 2024. Conor has also had art featured in the BHSU Rudell Gallery Annual Student Juried Exhibition, and the Art House Gallery in Hot Springs, South Dakota. McGraw’s passion for art and history can be seen in his exploration of emotionally driven concepts in personal and philosophical connections. These ideas manifest themselves through the imagery displayed in his artwork.
Education
2025 | Black Hills State University | BS, History
2025 | Black Hills State University | BFA, Studio Art
2025 - 21 | Black Hills State University Athletics | SAAC Member
Group Exhibitions / Juried Shows
2024 | Black Hills State University | Spearfish, SD | Rudell Gallery | Student Juried Show.
2024 | Mathews Opera House Gallery | Spearfish, SD | 45th Annual Community Art Show.
2024 | Dhal Arts Center | Rapid City, SD | BHSU Senior Thesis Exhibition.
2023 | Mathews Opera House Gallery | Spearfish, SD | 44th Annual Community Art Show.
2023 | Mathews Opera House Gallery | Spearfish, SD | Mythos and Mythology.
2022 | Mathews Opera House Gallery | Spearfish, SD | Art at BHSU
2022 | Black Hills State University | Spearfish, SD | Rudell Gallery | Student Juried Show.
2022 | Mathews Opera House Gallery | Spearfish, SD | 43rd Annual Community Art Show.
Solo Exhibitions / Events
2024 | Art House | Rapid City, SD | Art Night Featured Artist.
2024 | Art House | Hot Springs, SD | Featured Display.
2024 | Europan Reef Gold | Written by Raymond Anganes | Featured Book Illustrations
Awards
2024 | Mathews Opera House Gallery | Spearfish, SD | 45th Annual Community Art Show | First Place Adult 2D Division.
2022 | Mathews Opera House Gallery | Spearfish, SD | 43rd Annual Community Art Show | Best of Show Recipient.
