Bio
Artist Statement
Artist Statement
Craig M. Linderman is a contemporary visual artist based in Michigan, renowned for his innovative contributions to kinetic art and optical art. His work creates immersive experiences that not only engage viewers but also challenge their perceptions of visual reality.
Linderman earned a BFA in drawing and an MFA in printmaking from East
Craig M. Linderman is a contemporary visual artist based in Michigan, renowned for his innovative contributions to kinetic art and optical art. His work creates immersive experiences that not only engage viewers but also challenge their perceptions of visual reality.
Linderman earned a BFA in drawing and an MFA in printmaking from Eastern Michigan University, complemented by a degree in Art Education. With a passion for teaching, he has instructed students of all ages, from kindergarten through university level, and continues to inspire the next generation of artists.
Throughout his career, Linderman has exhibited extensively in galleries and exhibitions, both locally and nationally. His numerous solo shows and participation in group exhibitions have garnered attention for their inventive techniques and exceptional craftsmanship. His art has received accolades, establishing him as a respected figure in the contemporary art community.
Artist Statement
Artist Statement
Artist Statement
I wish to engage the viewer in a participatory experience, one that is compelling visually and elusive in meaning. I take advantage of such formal devices as optical illusions and complex rhythms to pull viewers into my work and keep them looking. Disturbing effects cause confusion and make it difficult for the eye to rest. In doing
I wish to engage the viewer in a participatory experience, one that is compelling visually and elusive in meaning. I take advantage of such formal devices as optical illusions and complex rhythms to pull viewers into my work and keep them looking. Disturbing effects cause confusion and make it difficult for the eye to rest. In doing so, the work comes alive, and often demands that the viewers adjust their proximity, tilt their heads from side to side, glare through eyelashes, or even look upside down to find a surprise or new visual experience.
Despite their range of styles, process, and imagery, my works are united in their attempt to empower the viewer to sort out what is real and what is not. I believe things are themselves and something else; they are what they are at first sight, and also what they are by the illusive play of perception. It is this transition from one image to another, the seduction and deception of the eyes, which provides me the greatest satisfaction.
I am open to all interpretations of my art. Hopefully, my viewers will become so enchanted by what they see, so captivated by the control and energy of my marks, that they will seek a rich prolonged experience, one that is comparable to what I experienced while creating the work.
My Current Work
Artist Statement
My Current Work
My current body of work explores drawings that can be viewed on multiple sides. As the series continues to grow, I found that I needed a name and for now I call them Turnables. To bring the work to life, I invented a unique center mounted device that allows the viewer to rotate the artwork at 90°or 180° turns to experience a new visua
My current body of work explores drawings that can be viewed on multiple sides. As the series continues to grow, I found that I needed a name and for now I call them Turnables. To bring the work to life, I invented a unique center mounted device that allows the viewer to rotate the artwork at 90°or 180° turns to experience a new visual surprise with every pivot. Some of the artwork is displayed in just two orientations while others work on three or four sides and beyond. While seemingly static initially, once the work is put in motion it bridges the gap between the two-dimensional world and the three-dimensional as the work is viewed in the round and can be seen at varied angles as sculpture does. The work is both kinetic and interactive, changeable, and magical. After a lifetime of searching for my magnus opus, I have finally found an endeavor that challenges me, excites me, and gnaws at me at the same time. The work has provided me the strongest sense of direction yet, and I’m on a quest to explore all that it has to offer.