When people find out that I am an artist they often ask me two questions, the first being, "What kind of art do you do ?"  The answer to that question is, "I am a surrealist."  Their next question is usually, "Oh... what is a surrealist ?"  Some may think that that is a silly question.  But I must say that after all these years, I am still at a loss as to how to answer it.
    "What is a surrealist ?"  Webster's defines surrealism as "the principles, ideals, or practice of producing fantastic or incongruous imagery or effects in art, literature, or theater by means of unnatural juxtapositions and combinations."  A pretty good definition as far as it goes, but surrealism is much more than that.  Award winning Danish surrealist Helmuth Goede once told me, "Surrealism is not a style of art, but a way of life.  I am not a surrealist artist, but a surrealist who happens to be an artist."
    I fully agree with Helmuth, but would clarify his statement a little.  I am a surrealist but I do not lead a surrealistic life-style.  I think surrealism is more a way of thinking; or better yet, a way of feeling.  I have always perceived the world in a slightly different way than other people (this has often been pointed out to me by friends and acquaintances).  All of the worlds and/or places represented in my paintings are very real to me.  Whether in another universe, another dimension or another level of consciousness, to me they actually exist.  I know that sounds a little strange, but I am surprised at how many people there are, artist and otherwise, that can relate to that statement.  Perhaps there is a little surrealist in a lot of us.

    Craig Blair received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania .  Places that have displayed his work include the Bowling Green State University Planitarium, the Fort Wayne Museum of Art and the Center of Science and Industry in Toledo.  His works can be found in private collections in California, Louisiana, Florida, Michigan, Ohio, Virginia and New York .   He also serves as President of the Weston Arts Council .
    Craig lives in  Northwest Ohio with his wife, Alaire, and his daughter, Briana, where he is in the process of restoring a 100 year old house .