Brandon Adams, a fifth-generation native of Greenville, Texas—a small town just outside Dallas—draws deeply from his roots as he journeys through the arts. His connection to place and history has profoundly shaped his creative perspective.
Brandon is driven by a desire to leave a lasting imprint, believing that art can serve as a timeless record of life. "I struggle with the feeling that we are all so temporary," he reflects, "but the art I leave behind will outlive me and hopefully act as a timestamp for my family for generations to come." Specializing in portraiture, Brandon seeks to capture fleeting moments through the eyes of his subjects, describing them as "a window to the soul, saying so much without a word."
His work has evolved to incorporate bold, layered elements inspired by techniques he honed during his career in graphic design. A 1997 graduate of the Art Institute of Dallas, Brandon has worked as a creative director for multiple agencies and now runs his own, The Smoking Gun. Throughout his career, his use of color has become his signature, drawing viewers in and evoking powerful emotions. "Color is everything," he explains, "guiding the eye like a road map and controlling the viewer's attention and feelings."
Working in mediums such as acrylic, spray paint, charcoal, and oil, Brandon’s approach blends techniques to create layered complexity and texture. His preference for 100% wood canvases enhances the natural tones in his portraits, further grounding his work in authenticity and connection. From paintings to sculptures and digital explorations, Brandon treats every medium as a canvas, striving to create art that resonates and endures.
"My paintings are not a parade of personal style and image. They are a showcase of passion, ambition, desire and accomplishment. It fuels my drive to continue to grow, dream and inspire. I want to do more than just paint but to share my soul." Brandon Adams