"Platform for Peace"; Mixed Media on Art Board; 40" L x 40" W
(STONE HARBOR, NJ) -- Ocean Galleries is thrilled to welcome internationally acclaimed artist Craig Alan for an exclusive exhibition over the July 4th weekend, showcasing his bold, visually arresting paintings that captivate audiences worldwide. The exhibition runs Friday, July 4 through Sunday, July 6, with art on display and available for purchase throughout the weekend. Complimentary wine receptions will be held from 6:00pm–9:00pm nightly.
Craig Alan is widely known for his innovative “Populus” series, in which hundreds of hand-painted, tiny human figures come together to form bold portraits of cultural icons. “You just look at his work, and you’re drawn to it first by how great the imagery is,” says Ocean Galleries owner, Kim Miller. “But then, when you look closer, you realize that there is so much more going on.”
Alan’s career spans genres—from abstract expressionism to graphic realism—but it’s his micro-population portraits that continue to astound audiences and collectors. “What may appear to be texture or shading from afar is actually a gathering of tiny individuals – each with its own posture, direction, and presence,” says Rebecca Allen, Alan’s representative. “Craig’s work rewards curiosity and observation. Look closely.”
"NO 5" (Mixed Media on Art Board); 48" L x 36" W
Ocean Galleries will feature a curated selection of Alan’s newest works, including mixed media, sculpture, and limited editions. These pieces explore themes of unity, transformation, identity, and cultural memory. Many reimagine familiar figures like Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, John Lennon, and Mickey Mouse—fused into vivid new compositions using Alan’s unmistakable technique.
“Every time we have his work framed in the gallery, people are enticed and really intrigued by them,” Miller adds. “His work is different from anything else we showcase. These paintings are not acrylic or oil paintings of the beach or water. This is truly a unique style.”
Visitors can expect to see everything from vibrant heart-themed works to pop-culture icons and subtle coastal references. “Some of the paintings have a beautiful turquoise,” says Miller. “We’ll really have something for everyone.”
Alan’s work has been shown in leading galleries across the U.S., Canada, and Europe and is held in collections worldwide. His artistic process is meticulous and entirely analog. “Every figure in his compositions is hand-painted and placed with intention,” says Allen. “While the overall image may seem digital at first glance, everything is done traditionally. The balance between technical precision and conceptual storytelling is part of the magic.”
“This exhibition is not just a showcase—it’s an experience,” Allen adds. “Whether you’re discovering Craig’s work for the first time or revisiting it with fresh eyes, this collection reflects his evolution as an artist while staying true to the heart of his practice: storytelling through community.”
Born in California and raised in Atlanta, Craig Alan attended University of Mobile Alabama on a soccer scholarship, studying studio art with a minor in theater, and working as street artist in New Orleans to earn extra money. He’s evolved into one of the most celebrated contemporary artists of his generation. Known for fusing pop culture with fine art, Alan continues to push the boundaries of portraiture, detail, and visual storytelling.
Ocean Galleries is located at 9618 Third Avenue in Stone Harbor, New Jersey. Admission is free and open to the public.
A premier destination for fine artists and art lovers, Ocean Galleries has been bringing world-class artists to the Jersey Shore for almost 40 years. With locations in both Avalon and Stone Harbor, New Jersey, the gallery curates rotating exhibitions and maintains a collection of originals and limited editions year-round.
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