Greg Simkins

Greg “CRAOLA” Simkins, from Torrance, California, is a renowned contemporary surrealist painter known for his vivid, imaginative works. Influenced early on by animals, cartoons, and books like Watership Down and The Chronicles of Narnia, Simkins began drawing at age three. He honed his skills through graffiti in his teens, adopting the name “CRAOLA,” which shaped his style and technical foundation.

After earning a B.A. in Studio Art from Cal State Long Beach in 1999, he worked as an illustrator and video game artist on titles like Spider-Man 2 and Tony Hawk 2X. In 2005, he transitioned to fine art full-time, gaining international acclaim for his surreal, narrative-rich acrylic paintings that blend pop culture, classical influences, and nature. His work is featured in top galleries and private collections, including those of Robin Williams, Emma Roberts and Fergie.