Some artists come and some go, but this Woodward artist found Woodward so enchanting that aside from a few years during and after college, he decided to make Woodward his permanent home. That long time citizen is Chris Castor, a forty year old family man who has made some big waves in his respective industries.

Like many, Castor claims for have been involved in the arts for as long as he can remember. His first art lessons were from his neighbor when he was in elementary school, but that wasn’t the only thing that he was up to: guitar lessons and art in the school system kept him busy creating and learning. After many years of tutelage and support Castor chose USAO, University of Arts and Sciences in Chikasha, for his Bachelors degree in Fine arts with an emphasis in painting. A love of learning his art kept him agile and in practice to keep learning new styles to this very day.

This love of learning also drives his purpose behind creation. To enjoy the ins and outs of exploration as well as the thrill of accomplishment gives him the satisfaction that many artists chase. Castor attributes his creativity to God, saying that when humans create it is because God Himself is the ultimate creator. “The creative process is one of the coolest gifts given to us by God” says Castor, also noting that he believes God takes joy when he learns, explores and creates. About his own creations themselves, he takes great joy in seeing others enjoying any of his creations be it a painting, a video or music.

His favorites nowadays reside in two very different mediums: Water color and film/animation, but he likes to spend his time learning his new 3D animation skills that include real time rendering (animation) and inserting that product into his live action film-making.

As far as favorites that have trained his eye, his inspirations include realism and hyper realism that became popular in the late 20th century with artists that many would mistake their works for photography such as Chuck Close (Photo realist portraits) and others of that nature. Recently however he has enjoyed a more moody, colorful and cinematic lighting pieces such as the western paintings of Gabe Leonard.

For support Castor hopes that someone might one day be able to find a way to find more time in his day. Just kidding! Other than that he would like to express his eternal gratitude to the people of Northwest Oklahoma for all of the support that they give every one of his projects and that he looks forward to continue creating and bringing people joy.

To purchase a calendar with Castor’s artwork included, visit us at Woodward News or contact your local United Fund member or Onstage Woodward Member. All Proceeds go to United Fund or Onstage Woodward.