Philip Craig was born in Ottawa in 1951. His passion for painting and art started at a young age. He attended a specialized art program through high school and majored in Graphic Design with a post graduate year in corporate and package design at Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario. Following his education Philip began his career as a graphic designer and then set designer with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation in Ottawa. Over the course of the next few years, he honed his skills and established himself as a talented designer in Ottawa and later for ten years in Newfoundland.
During this time in Newfoundland Philip was captivated by the landscape, which to this day has been a constant inspiration. He continued to develop his painting abilities and produced one show a year which he shipped back to a small gallery just outside Ottawa. His work gained a steady following, and after much consideration he resigned his position with the CBC to make the transition to becoming a full time artist. Philip’s wife Diane had always felt this was his calling and packed up the house and three small children he moved back to Ottawa to pursue his passion. It was there that Philip was invited to exhibit his work in a major survey exhibition which prompted the interest of an established commercial gallery, which proved to be a major turning point in his career.
Philips’ talent caught the attention of Nancy Pooles Studio, a prestigious gallery located in Toronto’s vibrant Yorkville district. After a number of very successful exhibitions Philip had become a much sought after artist and is currently represented by Loch Gallery in Toronto, Calgary and Winnipeg. Philip also exhibited in London England at Roy Miles Gallery in Mayfair. His captivating works are not only displayed in public galleries but also grace numerous private and corporate collections both in Canada and internationally.
Driven by desire to see the world and seek new inspiration, Philip has traveled extensively in search of unique subject matter for his paintings. His studio in Perth, Ontario is a hub of creativity where he produces two collections a year, in addition to taking on commission work.
Apart from his artistic endeavours Philip is deeply committed to various philanthropic causes. As a board member of the Grapes for Humanity Global Foundation, a charitable organization supported by the international wine community, he saw firsthand what needs to be done in places like Haiti, Guatemala and India, as well as needs closer to home. He has found that paintings can contribute to making a positive impact on the world.
With an impressive repertoire of artwork and a passion for sharing his artistic journey, Philip continues to create captivating masterpieces that resonate with audiences around the globe.