About Carol

Carol McGraw was born in Rochester, New York and grew up in Phoenix, Arizona. One of eight children, Carol was constantly drawing and creating as a child. Her artistic sensibilities were fostered by her mother who made sure that she had materials with which to work, even though money was tight.

Carol attended Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona, graduating with a B.A. in Studio Art. Carol entered the art program because she liked to draw, but found she had a passion for painting. Living and working at a “real” job in Phoenix for many years, Carol created art in her spare time.

During this time, Carol married and had a daughter. She moved with her family to Maryland in 1997. This move afforded her more time to study, create and exhibit her artwork. The McGraw family currently lives in Baltimore County. Carol has been involved in numerous solo and group exhibitions. Her artwork can be found in many collections, both private and public.

Venues that have shown her work include: Antreasian Gallery, Carroll Mansion Art Gallery, Ward Center for the Arts, Artesanos Don Bosco Gallery, Gallery Unicorn and Wells Real Estate Funds Gallery. Carol is a longtime member and former Co-President of the Women Artists’ Forum and a member of the Creative Alliance.

Download Carol's resume.

Artists Statement

When I paint, the palette I use is covered in big mushy globs of acrylic color. People often remark about it. I like to be able to dive right in and express myself. Pulling my subjects up close, I feel an emotional response that determines how I paint them.

I don’t worry about being realistic or being “right”. Nor do I worry about making “mistakes”. I like to take chances and see where the painting leads me.

By exaggerating shapes, lines and colors, I elicit the character and mood that I am experiencing. I want my paintings to be strong. It is important that they are fresh and exude energy, from the composition and the color choices to the brush strokes themselves. I want the audience to be vitalized upon looking at my pieces and to be able to relate to their spirit.