Cory Rain Painting

Painting has been that persistent itch in the back of my mind for decades. Growing up in a bustling household in Pittsburgh with eight family members, all artists in their own right, I was surrounded by creativity from a young age. My journey began with a sketchbook always at hand and formal classes at Carnegie Mellon, nurturing an early passion for visual expression. After high school, which felt like a scene straight out of a John Hughes film, I pursued a Film degree at Penn State. My early career in Warhol's hometown launched my 30-year career in television marketing and took me from the vibrant streets of New York to Los Angeles, where I contributed to pop culture milestones from leading the marketing campaigns for "Schitt's Creek" to the unforgettable experience of meeting my heroes, George Lucas and Carrie Fisher. In the world of TV marketing, my creativity was confined to the rectangle of the screen—whether it was a TV, computer, billboard, print ad, or social media post. My role required a keen understanding of visual storytelling, from color palettes that evoke specific moods to designing for various platforms with precision and intent. I orchestrated numerous photo shoots, promotional campaigns, and brand narratives, all within the constraints of a rectangular format. Now, this expertise has translated into a new realm: the four corners of a canvas. During the quarantine, I found a renewed voice in painting, drawing inspiration from the organic forms around me at home and in nature. This shift from the digital rectangles of TV marketing to the boundless possibilities of the canvas has allowed me to explore new creative dimensions. I am excited to bring this fresh perspective to my audience, merging my extensive background in visual storytelling with a newfound passion for painting. Each piece reflects my journey from screen to canvas, capturing the essence of both my professional experience and personal evolution.