First Impressions - Glenn Arthur

Influences from Disneyland shape the artist’s work

Where did you grow up and how has this influenced your art?

I grew up in Orange County, California, within earshot of the Disneyland fireworks. Growing up in such close proximity to several amusement parks and tourist attractions really taught me to pay close attention to storytelling and details. All of the intricately themed lands and the ornately detailed designs have inspired me endlessly.

What, outside of art, has most influenced your artwork?

Rococo and Victorian women's fashion and aesthetics have always had a profound influence on my artistic style. Old fairy tales and spooky lore have also heavily inspired my work, as well as pop culture and cartoons from my childhood during the 1980s and 90s. And of course, I've always had an extreme fondness of beautiful flowers and cheeky hummingbirds.What was your first paid commission, and does it stand as a representation of your talent?

My first real commission was for an album cover over a decade ago for a band that I still work with today. My style, technique and skill have immensely evolved since then, but I'm still proud of that first piece.

What's the last piece you finished, and how do the two works differ?