Born in 1953, California native and Texas transplant, Craig Turner has talents that take many forms. Craig is a self-taught artist and master craftsman who has been transforming canvas and landscapes into what can only be described as fine art.

Craig grew up in a tough neighborhood in San Jose. Early on he realized that there were places far from the blight of urban life where animals roamed free on plains devoid of man's destructive nature. Craig became fascinated with Africa and her wildlife and began to plan a way to get there. Craig began painting in high school and experimenting with different media. He also volunteered at the zoo in order to get closer to the animals that he longed to see in the wild. He finally got to use his experience with animals as his dream of going to Africa was realized in 1978.

While in Africa, Craig was not content with the usual tourist trail through the African wildlife parks. He ventured as far away from the crowds as possible, camping and working in areas alone off-limits to tourists. He had come to Africa to see wildlife, not people. Because of his unorthodox approach, Craig was able to capture on film and video the true essence of wild Africa, often at his own jeopardy, as numerous close-calls resulted. Craig however did survive, and has since made numerous trips back to Africa to pack his photo library with unforgettable images.

With the aid of his photographs and the vision of the experience permanently etched in his mind Craig began painting the experience. The result is some of the most incredible wildlife visions ever put to canvas. His specialty in the art is his acute detail and realism. His paintings depict the daily struggle of life and death and the peace of the natural world.

A selection of limited edition signed and numbered prints from some of his work embodying the spirit and adventure of the dark continent are now available. View the links and take a visual trip to the heart of Africa.

On a parallel path, Craig has transformed his estate in Austin into a wonderland of buildings and structures depicting ancient times. Rock by rock, stone by stone, year by year, Craig's project continues. The estate has been recognized by Good Morning America as one of top finalist in their Best Backyard in America contest. While building a wall as part of an ancient courtyard, Craig decided he needed a special piece of art for this special place. The result was Craig's rendition of Michelangelo's God Creates Adam. While the original is proudly displayed as a center piece in the courtyard, the power of the image influenced Craig to reproduce it as his first bronze offering. This incredible bronze relief panel, cast in the lost wax method, measures 34" x 44" and is limited to 50 signed and numbered pieces. (Click the link to view in more detail and for ordering information).

Craig currently lives in Austin, Texas with his wife and three children where he continues to transform his estate into a manor from days gone by. His mind, however, is never far from Africa.

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