Randal Crawford | randalcrawford.com

Throughout Randal Crawfords collection of works he constantly strive to master new techniques, within a wide range of medias. In addition to being a practicing studio artist, Randy Crawford holds the position of Professor of Art at Delta College.

about | randal crawford

  • Randal Crawford Practicing Artist

Each visual journey begins with words and images derived from human experiences. I intermingle information with imagery from my journeys. I use a variety of techniques ranging from traditional drawing, weaving, glazed ceramics, wood carving and contemporary imaging.

As a teacher, I challenge students to expand their understanding of design, materials, lines, spatial relationships, textures, color theory and to develop their mental process of creating a solution to a problem. An appropriate combination of artistic freedom and structure is fundamental for cultivating a deeper sense of responsibility and self-expression.

It is essential that the classroom atmosphere nurtures collaboration and fosters individual growth. Exposure, research and discipline are all necessary for the student to become a successful artist.

View Resume

artwork | randal crawford

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My artistic explorations reflect personal investigations into nature's forces encountered on my travels. One visual journey begins with words and images derived from elements from these investigations. Information and intermingle these with imagery from my dreams. I use a variety of techniques ranging from traditional drawing, weaving, glazed ceramics and wood carving, to contemporary digital imaging.

digital | randal crawford

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  • digital work | randal crawford

For example, my digital work, in part, attempts to recreate the organic, biotic realm around us through the manipulation and layering of images. In essence, I simply attempt to capture the structure of the world as I perceive it. Many of my digital pieces use grids as frameworks and juxtapose frenzied lines against the backdrop of geometric elements. Often overlaid with text, letters also tend to become part of the landscapes.

works on paper | randal crawford

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  • works on paper

My drawings lean towards representing gridded landscapes that are seemingly viewed from a mid-air perspective. Usually colossal in size and sketched with an earth palette and simple grey tones, each section displays the resulting affects of nature's ability to alter surfaces. At times I juxtapose realistic imagery within the picture plane to establish a pictorial contrast.

paintings | randal crawford

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  • paintings

My paintings attempt to recreate the organic biotic realm around us. Through the manipulation and layering of oil and wax I uncover the map that lies beneath. The physical energy exerted onto untouched surfaces symbolizes the shaping that occurs in the natural world.

sculpture | randal crawford

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  • sculpture

My wood sculptures, on the other hand, are literally gouged and scored to show rivers and streams gutting the landscape and hills and knolls swelling above the earth. Using warm tones, color also plays an integral role in emphasizing particular landscapes within the wood sculptures. Also, after the wood sculptures are nearly finished, I typically weather the surfaces even further by rubbing them down with beeswax to temper any unnatural sheen.

textiles | randal crawford

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  • textiles

My weavings are also manipulated in such a way that boundaries are broken and color naturally bleeds beyond their respective frameworks and the movement of the fabric itself develops distinct color fields of texture and shape. The process of weaving double cloth allows me to work with several layers of information. The pick-up technique allows me to draw directly as I move along. When weaving, I am plotting out shapes and inventing strategies along the game board warp I have established.

Northwood Gallery Solo Show 09/09

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  • alphabet nights

Randal Crawford presents "Alphabet Nights", August 24 - October 17, 2009 at Northwood Galley Downtown Midland, MI

CMU Invitational Group Show

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  • more alternate explanations

SVSU Solo Exhibition

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Studio 23 Solo Show

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Northwood Gallery Solo Show

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Space Studios Solo Show

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Delta College Faculty Exhibition

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the process | randal crawford

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My artistic explorations reflect personal investigations into nature's forces encountered on my travels. One visual journey begins with words and images derived from elements from these investigations. Information and intermingle these with imagery from my dreams. I use a variety of techniques ranging from traditional drawing, weaving, glazed ceramics and wood carving, to contemporary digital imaging.

news releases | randal crawford

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student | randal crawford

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I believe in a rigorous foundation program that provides students with technical and conceptual approach to their studies. Students should begin to focus and find direction in their work conceptually and formally, developing skills and recognizing personal strengths. An appropriate combination of artistic freedom and structure is fundamental for cultivating a deeper sense of responsibility and self-expression.

It is essential that the classroom atmosphere nurtures collaboration and fosters individual growth. Exposure, research and discipline are all necessary for the student to become a successful artist.

two dimension design | student work

  • 2d Student Work
  • two dimensional design | students

Experiments with the basic elements of design: line, form, space, value, texture, and color. Utilizes a variety of media in developing a visual vocabulary and understanding of art elements and composition.

digital | student work

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  • digital design | student work

Student work showcasing photo manipulation, photo retouching, image editing, and digital painting. Courses teaches artists traditional graphic techniques and photographic effects using the Apple computers and Adobe application software.

drawing | student work

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  • drawing | student work

In this course we emphasize composition and further understanding of the elements of drawing in relation to individual expression. Problems involve a variety of media. The objectives of the course will be approached through a series of drawing problems intended to lead the student through experiences which develop thinking and interpretation of visual ideas.

illustrated | student work

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  • illustrated | student woork

The course will involve the use of Adobe software: Illustrator. The student will receive the technical information of the software programs and how they relate to other graphic applications in the design field. Both the design and technical aspects will be emphasized. The course teaches designers how to produce traditional graphic and photographic effects using software applications.

sculpture | student work

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  • sculpture | student work

This is an introduction to a variety of sculptural concepts and techniques utilizing a variety of media. When applicable, sketches are required for review prior to assigning grades. This allows me to gauge your project development and use of the design process.

textiles | student work

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  • textiles | student work

I introduce the students to fabric structures from simple, plain and rib weaves, through twills, satins, waffle weaves, double-cloth, composite structures, and color effects. This course uses the computer in the study of woven textile design. Fabric dyeing and resist methods are addressed, including drawing and stamping with waxes, stitching and binding with threads, etc. Students acquire a broader sense of mark-making and an understanding of the special color properties of dyes, and an ability to use non-Western traditional craft methods to create contemporary art fabric.

fusion | randal crawford

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Michael Glowacki

Dear Randy,

Randy was the foundation to my art and design career. First he inspired me to go forth and follow my creative abilities. Second, he implemented in me an extraordinarily hard work ethic by example of his actions and personal practice. Over the years Randy has gone above and beyond the teaching occupation not only acting as an invaluable resource for my career, but also as a dear friend.

Michael Glowacki
BFA Kendall Art and Design
MFA - Cranbrook
www.michaelglowacki.net

Jordan Myers & Tammy Gath

Dear Randy,

Randy was one of the most influential teachers we ever had. His class drove us to the top of the class at Kendall College where we earned our BFA. Randy's guidance provided us with the strong fundamental background skill needed to make us succeeded in our career path.

Jordan Myers & Tammy Gath
BFA - Kendall Art and Design
www.tammygath.com

Tim Speakers

I wanted to drop you a quick noted to let you know how lucky your students are to have such a wonderful teacher.

Tim and I got into a conversation the other night and your name cam up. Tim spoke so highly of you, that after a long time from speaking from his heart. I was convinced you should know what you have done for him. I started to write down somethings he was saying:

"ridiculously, gifted in so many ways"
"he could go anywhere and be huge"
" I was incredibly lucky to know him, he just cases so much about his students"
"unbelievably rate to find someone like him"
"I always felt I could trust him he was my copilot"

Tim has worked and influenced many people so far in his life yet he singled you out as the most influential person in his life. I want you to know how much I appreciate all you have done for him. His life / health has always been a challenge. Many people are obviously blessed to know you.
The bottom Line is you make the difference.
From Mary Speaker - Tim's mother
MFA - UW Madison Art

Jason Schroeder

Dear Randy,

Randy was one of my most exciting and effective teachers. His energetic personality, enthusiasm for art-making, and generosity in sharing his extensive knowledge of techniques made me look forward to working in his class. His assignments were challenging and demanding, yet flexible enough that I could make them my own.

Jason Schroeder
BFA - Art Institute of Chicago
Adjunct Instructor of Delta College

Angie Stegman

Dear Randy,

Randy is the most inspiring Professor I've ever had and is devoted to the success of his students. His vibrant teaching style, coupled with his extensive knowledge of Adobe, fully prepares you for the true world of design.

Angie Stegman
BFA From CMU University

Chien Sheng Hus

Dear Randy,

I would like to thank you for all the things that you taught me. I am really grateful to be your student, and having the chance to learn art & design, and being in your classes. Not only the experience but others too.. I am not sure how to describe it, so I would just say thank you.

Chien Sheng Hus

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