William Griffin paints figures as forms and shapes, touching and reacting in sensual gestures. He uses the human figure’s power to express strong physical and emotional content. Drawing on many years of Fine Arts studies at Washington University in St. Louis, as well as his continued self-study, Griffin has developed a personal style, which brings immediacy to his work. His use of subdued color keeps the dominant focus on the figure itself. Griffin describes the torso in a modernist manner, taking note of abstract shapes, without diminishing the drama of the human form. His paintings, executed on a grand scale, create a powerful experience for the viewer. Figures are pushed up against the frontal plane of the painting, confronting the viewer with an intimacy resembling the encounter between his subjects.
Griffin is Artistic Director for the Veiled Prophet Parade, centerpiece event of the annual July 4th holiday celebration in St. Louis. He designs and produces monumental sculpted/painted parade floats, recognized throughout the country for their originality and complexity.
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