George W. Simmons

I make art in a variety of media: Drawing/works on paper, collage, painting, printmaking, photography and lately digital drawing. I paint/draw spontaneously in the tradition of the abstract expressionist: one mark inviting the next until a “maturing” image appears. The image is then often fussed over until it is complete.

However lately I’m compelled to start with a bust and or figure. I see these images as being self portraits. They have evolved into a reflection of my experiences and concerns. They are inspired by issues of racial identity, masculinity, health and mortality- particularly as a cancer survivor. They also serve as a channel for my personal response to the anxiety, turmoil, contradictions and absurdities in the contemporary world.

I earned a B.S. in marketing and photography from Hampton Institute. I continued my studies in art in NYC with the Studio Semester Program, Empire State College. I then earned an MFA in studio art from The University of Wisconsin Madison.

I now live and make art in Conway SC.