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 Specific historical references prove to be ideal origin points for my drawings.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 sculpture, World War One soldiers, 16th century dress, 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 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 Jono Dry, and 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 degrees in both studio art and history at Black Hills State University in Spearfish, South Dakota. 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. 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”, which won the best of show title at the 2022 Mathews Community Art Exhibition. Conor has also had art featured in the BHSU Rudell Gallery Annual Student Juried Exhibition. McGraw’s passion for art and history can be seen in his exploration of emotionally driven concepts displayed in his artwork.

Exhibitions

-Mathews Opera House and Arts Center Art at BHSU (2022, 2023).

-Mathews Opera House and Arts Center Community Art Show (2022, 2024) Best of Show Recipient in 2022.

-BHSU Student Juried Show (2022, 2024).

-Dhal Arts Center BHSU Senior Exhibition (2024).

-Mathews Opera House and Arts Center Mythos and Mythology Art Exhibition (2023).

-Art House Gallery (Hot Springs, SD)