Throwback 1991-1995
Artist
Craig Witte
Category
Drawing
During his college years at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design from 1991 to 1995, Craig Witte focused intensely on figure drawing as a cornerstone of his artistic development. These formative years were marked by rigorous learning and creative exploration, as he refined his skills and pushed the boundaries of his visual expression.
Figure drawing, with its emphasis on anatomy, proportion, and the human form, challenged Witte to observe and capture the subtleties of the body in motion and at rest. Each studio session offered an opportunity to deepen his understanding of line, shape, and volume, translating the complexities of the human figure onto paper. The environment at Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design fostered both discipline and inspiration, encouraging camaraderie among students as they shared techniques and insights.
Throughout this period, Witte’s approach to figure drawing evolved significantly. His early sketches were focused on accuracy and realism, but over time he embraced more expressive and dynamic renderings. He experimented with various media, including charcoal, graphite, and ink, each offering a unique way to convey the energy and emotion of the human form.
Reflecting on those years, Witte recognizes how foundational figure drawing was to his growth as an artist. It instilled in him the importance of observation, patience, and the relentless pursuit of improvement. The lessons learned during that time continue to shape his work today, serving as a lasting reminder of the beauty and complexity of the human figure. His time at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design (MIAD) was not only an education in technique, but a profound journey into the heart of artistic expression.
Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design 1994
Class of 1995, Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design
An interesting tidbit: The class of 1995 was the last to experience the 342 N Water Street building before MIAD relocated to its current site. One of the highlights was the unbeatable 10-cent ice cream sandwich machine!
