Junkie
It all begins with an idea of creating difficult artwork. Artwork that still remains enjoyable to view but yet extremely difficult to produce.
Gregory Mayer is a contemporary portrait artist born in 1976 in California, currently residing in Scottsdale, Arizona, and San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. He explores the relationship between perception and reality, transforming three-dimensional mediums into evocative two-dimensional images. His work challenges viewers to engage with subjects in unexpected ways.
Intrigued by how the eye conveys visual information to the brain, Gregory creates art that stresses the brain's ability to process mixed elements like color, shape, and material. His pieces are recognizable from a distance but nearly unidentifiable up close, offering distinct experiences when viewed from various angles and distances.
In recent years, Gregory has embraced a challenging new medium—building blocks. These materials have limited shapes and colors, pushing him to innovate to find visual solutions with limited options. He often applies custom paint to achieve desired colors which gives him the effect of ultimately creating optical illusions that engage and surprise the participant.
Raised by a single mother and facing challenges like color blindness and dyslexia, Gregory’s subjects often depict men who defy societal norms, reflecting themes of resilience and individuality. Each piece encourages curiosity and deeper exploration.
Since 1996 Gregory has been practicing and studying art at Monterey Peninsula College, the Academy of Art in San Francisco, and Arizona State University, Instituto Allende in Mexico along with completing a multitude of courses. His diverse educational background informs his creative process, allowing him to explore a variety of techniques and mediums.