Visual Arts

How Phoenix Artist Paul Wilson Transformed a Mid-Century Obsession into a Decades-Spanning Career

Paul Wilson might have been the Phoenix art scene's best-kept secret. Until recently, that is. The 50-year-old artist's creative endeavors, centered on his obsession with 1950s and '60s pop culture, have spanned both decades and media including photography, video, and performance, while he makes a living freelancing as a set...
Carbonatix Pre-Player Loader

Audio By Carbonatix

https://vimeo.com/108833802

Paul Wilson might have been the Phoenix art scene’s best-kept secret. Until recently, that is.

The 50-year-old artist’s creative endeavors, centered on his obsession with 1950s and ’60s pop culture, have spanned both decades and media including photography, video, and performance, while he makes a living freelancing as a set designer and painter for various Valley theater troupes.

See also: Tour de Farce – The Faux, Fake, and Fabulous Art of Paul Wilson

When news happens, Phoenix New Times is there —
Your support strengthens our coverage.

We’re aiming to raise $30,000 by December 31, so we can continue covering what matters most to you. If New Times matters to you, please take action and contribute today, so when news happens, our reporters can be there.

$30,000

Not only has Wilson exhibited set design skills with his mid-century fascination in public, he also transformed his childhood home, which he lived and created art in until a few months ago, into a picture-almost-perfect replica of a House Beautiful spread from the ’50s.

To read more, check out Kathleen Vanesian’s cover story on Paul Wilson — complete with his art, a rundown of his recurring characters, and a video tour of his former home.

Follow Jackalope Ranch on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

GET MORE COVERAGE LIKE THIS

Sign up for the Arts & Culture newsletter to get the latest stories delivered to your inbox

Loading latest posts...