Rocklin resident Shane Grammer creates imaginative and colorful illustrations, as well as large-scale installations. Through SG Studios, he’s been commissioned by clients all over the world to design and craft masterpieces—from popular Disney figures to larger-than-life sculptures straight from one’s wildest dreams. He’s also involved in the Themed Entertainment Association. Although Grammer travels often on business to metropolitan cities, he says it’s always great to return to the slower pace of home.

HLB: Your art is industrial. What materials do you use? 

SG: A lot of different mediums: large foam blocks, steel armature, positive carving, fire rated epoxy, fiberglass, clay and wood. They’re very industrial construction materials that require heavy-duty tools and processes. 

HLB: What were you like as a young artist? 

SG: I wouldn’t do art until I was forced to, and then I would get crazy about it! As a kid, I took art for granted—it wasn’t something that was always on my mind, but the projects I had to complete at school often piqued my interest and involvement in pursuing it.

HLB: How did you get started with the Themed Entertainment Association? 

SG: Graffiti and mural work with youth groups and churches are what really got me started. This led me to traveling ministries, specifically theatrical ministry productions, which introduced me to makeup, stage props and stage sets. Around that time, I met a Hollywood sculptor who inspired me and launched me into the world of themed environments, design and fabrication.

HLB: Any major influences? 

SG: Definitely Walt Disney, along with George Lucas and Steve Jobs.

HLB: Any advice for the business aspect of art? 

SG: Network! Learn to build relationships and a tribe. Most artists are consumed by their art—so in tune with what they’re creating—that they aren’t taking the time to develop a network or a platform to sell their work or creative services. My advice to young artists in art school would be to take a few business and marketing courses to force their brain to begin thinking of the other aspects for longevity and success in the art world.

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