Tyler Wagner

What originally began as a recreational escape from the grind of corporate existence has slowly evolved into an essential part of who I am and who I strive to become. Gone are the days of mindlessly pushing paint around a canvas with no intent other than to hopefully create something that’s visually appealing to someone.

With every moment I spend engaged in the creative process, I become more and more invested in what the resulting piece ultimately means to me and to anyone who happens to see it. During a year in which our entire world was turned upside down, I spent a great deal of time reflecting on the role of myth throughout the ages and how different stories were created to give meaning to the trials and troubles of the day. Though we currently live in a time of often unbearable uncertainty and division, I take comfort in the knowledge that the world has seen its share of dark days, and that beauty has always shone through in spite of this.

My objective with my more recent pieces has been to create stories that explore how the ancient role of myth still applies to us today. I decided to begin this exploration in a style inspired by my many experiences in the beautiful and mythical realm of West Texas. More specifically, I hope to be able to address the fears and anxieties of death and the unknown in a comforting manner by communicating these themes with a mystic air and a vibrant palette. Hopefully these stories are hauntingly beautiful.