Art is more than a hobby for Clarkston resident Gary McKinney.
The local artist is being featured this month at the Independence Township Library meeting room. McKinney is showing paintings of downtown Clarkston mixed with depictions of other areas in Michigan.
‘Art is inspiration and I was inspired to paint local scenes,? McKinney said. ‘These are Gary McKinney’s views of the area. I enjoy speaking to people visually.?
McKinney has been painting since he was eight years old.
‘I was discovered by my teacher. She saw I had a talent and called my parents to tell them about it. It is all about support,? McKinney said.
McKinney’s parents played an intricate role in him becoming an artist. For his twelfth birthday, his parents built him a full blown art studio.
‘It had the works. I had oil painting, pencils, easels, water colors and everything else I needed. You couldn’t drag me out of there,? McKinney said. ‘I always had great support from my parents. I believe family support is so important.?
While other boys were playing baseball, McKinney was in his art studio perfecting his craft.
His interest in art continued to blossom as he grew older. McKinney graduated from Wayne State University with a degree in Painting/Art History. During his college years he also worked in an art museum and spent his breaks reading about art in the book store.
‘Art has always been a part of my life. I went back to my high school reunion and people said, ‘I knew what you were going to do.? Art is a love and a passion for me,? McKinney said.
When McKinney began his professional life he continued his love of art. McKinney works for General Motors as a project coordinator for graphics/publishing.
McKinney works a minimum of two hours each weekday on his art and more on the weekends. He feels it is important to discipline himself.
‘You have to make the time. If you just wait until you have time you will never do it,? McKinney said.
McKinney enjoys the fact his art makes people think and further investigate images they are familiar with in everyday life.
‘My family and teachers have had the biggest impact on my life. I don’t think of myself as special, as an artist. My work serves as a catalyst for thought. However, every person in society brings a special talent and we must teach, show and give them the tools they will need to prosper in their own futures,? McKinney said.
Anyone interested in purchasing McKinney’s work can call (248) 620-2715.