Originally from Baltimore, New York based artist Brian Kirhagis discovered his calling at an early age. From the very first time he picked up a pencil, it was evident that he possessed a unique style and natural ability to capture the world around him.
His first opportunity to develop his skills and learn traditional techniques came as a junior in high school. Introduced to canvas and paint for the first time, BK flourished over his final two years, and upon graduation, had received the top honors in the art department. However, he realized the difficulty and uncertainty associated with a career as an artist. Brian wanted something he could fall back on, and even eventually use to support his art. He left for New York in 2001 to attend Hofstra University for Graphic Design.
After graduation, Brian founded Brikwork Studios, a full service graphic/web design company. Determination and good fortune led to some lucrative accounts, and Brian was able to sustain and get by. Working around the clock, BK would design and paint, switching back and forth from mac to canvas at a fervent pace, driven largely by the fear of having to get a job and losing the ability to work on his art freely. The line between artist and designer became blurred and it was only a matter of time before design clients became aware of his paintings. Soon they were purchasing websites and branding packages, as well as paintings for their office. The ability to cross promote his art to design clients turned the studio into a factory; constantly producing new work on both platforms. As the company grew, he used his spare time and money to invest and focus on his art. In March 2007, Brian founded his second company, BK The Artist, Inc. and began pursuing a career full time.
Largely self taught, Brian developed his technique through countless hours of experimentation in the studio. As a graphic designer, Brian spent a great deal of time manipulating pixels in photoshop and scouring the internet for stock photography. By understanding the core principles of marketing and advertising, combined with the constant exposure to the digital world, BK discovered what his art would be about. He strived to create art undeniably from the human hand, imperfect, splashed with the realities of life for his generation. In a world of 400 megapixel cameras and 70" high def cinema displays, it seemed pointless to re-create what computers could do so easily. BK began using double images and hidden elements in his work, allowing for complex compositions with deeply symbolic meanings. Over the next few years, Brian Kirhagis emerged on the contemporary art scene with his raw, uncut style. With exhibits in Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau County, Manhattan, and Southampton, he had firmly established himself in the NY art world.
Already compared to some of art's heavyweights, BK has only begun to scratch the surface. He continues to challenge himself and push the envelope, evolving as an artist and individual; motivated to use his gift as a tool to heighten awareness about social inequalities, racial division, and generational flaws. He states that art is a language that, when spoken correctly, has a unique ability to build bridges where words fall short.