*SOUR MILK, Lithograph, image 9 x 7" paper 19 x 12"*

Fred Stonehouse, a virtuoso of the uncanny, delves into the abyss of creativity where the tangible blends seamlessly with the ethereal. His canvas becomes a gateway to uncharted realms, where every brushstroke narrates tales of enigma and fascination.

Growing up in a tough neighborhood on Milwaukee's north side, Fred Stonehouse's rise to prominence seemed nearly unthinkable. At Milwaukee Boys Technical High School, he studied auto mechanics, but what really spoke to him was the art department. When Fred thinks back on those early years, he remembers the significant influence of having a creative haven among the harshness of his high school surroundings. The attraction of art overrode the attraction of his automotive studies, posing a dramatic internal conflict for the teenage Fred.

Throughout his incredible journey, Fred frequently says, "I'm just a Milwaukee guy," despite having appeared in multiple magazines, attracting crowds with his presentations around the country, and receiving awards and grants. Fred's effect on the art industry is evident, from drawing for renowned magazines like Rolling Stone and Playboy to having his work adored by celebrities such as Madonna and Sheryl Crow, and he's far from finished. While he might thrive in a booming artistic hotspot, he prefers to stay in Wisconsin, where his artistic career began. He sees limitless creative potential in his home state, drawing inspiration from underappreciated art places such as the Museum of Wisconsin Art, Chazen Museum of Art, and his favorite Tory Folliard Gallery. Fred is always on the go but always pulled back to Wisconsin, where he enjoys the artistic energy that thrives, symbolizing a real artist who seeks beauty and opportunity wherever he goes.

Fred's artistic expression puts these feelings into canvas, expertly integrating themes of corruption and despair throughout his works. Fred's work, as Allie Schaitel so beautifully depicts, quietly conveys his dissatisfaction with the status of society and his concern for the future of the United States. In the midst of the chaotic political environment that grips the United States, Fred Stonehouse finds himself coping with the current situation, as brilliantly depicted by Allie Schaitel in her enlightening piece. In the middle of the constant flood of election-related news in the media, Fred's strong political views ring true. He is concerned about the extensive influence of corporate interests, the decline of the middle class, economic instability, and entrenched bureaucracy. Furthermore, having observed personally the creeping hold of capitalism and corporate greed on the art world, Fred is concerned about the industry's exorbitant commercialization. Through his art, he investigates the complex convergence of power, religion, and personal belief, drawing on both his own experiences and contemporary events that impact the globe.

Thanks to Allie Schaitel for providing a perceptive account of Fred Stonehouse's creative process and the deep themes that recur in his work. It's encouraging to explore the depths of their mutual love for artistic expression and social criticism as a sincere admirer of Allie's writing and Fred's painting. Read the original article here.

Following his graduation with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Fred embarked on his artistic journey, initially showcasing his creations at a grand art fair held at Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois. It was here that he discovered a genuine resonance with his unconventional aesthetic among individuals, particularly those with influential ties to art galleries. Fuelled by his passion for exhibiting and propelled by an unwavering determination to establish himself as a professional artist, Fred seized every opportunity to expand his reach.
Working primarily with acrylic paints, Fred's artistic process is characterized by prolific output and a preference for efficiency. Embracing the immediacy afforded by acrylics, he often finds himself engrossed in creating pieces right up to exhibition deadlines. This preference aligns with his aversion to the protracted drying times and toxic nature of oil paints. Fred's artistic style is marked by a deliberate primitivism, deliberately eschewing polished refinement in favor of raw authenticity. Drawing inspiration from instinct rather than striving for meticulous perfectionism, he consciously distances himself from the prevailing trend of commercial slickness and seamless execution that dominates contemporary art circles.

*NIGHT KING II, Acrylic on Canvas, 48 x 72"*

"Being in the studio and creating from your own imaginary world is special. That’s the reason I was willing to end up living under a bridge because that’s what I was after. It wasn’t about money. I’d be a security guard, a bouncer, or a mechanic to make money. Money is just a necessity, it is not meaning in your life. For me, if you took the meaning out of art, it’d be the same as anything else."

— Fred Stonehouse, speaking to Allie Schaitel during an interview for Beautiful Bizarre.

Contemplate delving further into Fred Stonehouse's enthralling realm of expression as you contemplate his artistic journey and unique approach to his trade. Explore some of Fred's captivating pieces by scrolling through the ones shown at the bottom of this page. Additionally, check out Fred's Instagram feed for a more in-depth look at his continuing projects and artistic attempts. Explore his gallery of works to learn about the complex stories and striking visuals that characterize Fred Stonehouse's singular artistic perspective.

Enjoy more art below and for more things Fred Stonehouse check out his Instagram.