Pouring it on: Out Ohio artist finds happiness in swirling paint

While exploring his love of art, a Maumee, Ohio-based artist has found community and culture along the way.

Thomas Craley, 39, is the creative force behind TC Acrylics, a company centered on his acrylic pour art. His technique involves pouring an acrylic paint mixture onto a canvas and using a variety of methods, like a blow dryer or gravity, to make organic patterns on the canvas. There are no rules or guidelines to follow, said Craley, who is self-taught.

Through TC Acrylics, Craley aims to share his artwork, teach others to do their own acrylic pour painting and spread as much happiness as humanly possible.

Finding his passion

A self-proclaimed social butterfly, Craley missed connecting with people during the pandemic. His partner suggested that he find a new hobby, and Craley came upon acrylic pour painting in social media posts. The freeform art became his new passion and the beginning of his journey of self-discovery.

“I did drag for seven years, so that was a very creative outlet,” Craley said. “I’ve always had that in me, and this is just a different way of expressing that. I use a lot of bold colors, and a lot of movement and a lot of eye-catching things in my art that I feel, I hope, draws people in.”

Once Craley became confident in his own pour-painting skills, he began teaching classes to adults and children to spread the joy.

“This is not traditional art,” Craley said. “There are no paint brushes or anything involved. So it’s something that [students] can do and not feel any qualms about it because it’s a very abstract art. I’ve had a lot of happy people leave with their art pieces and say, ‘Oh my God, I can’t believe I’ve done this!’”

Exploring his culture

As his interest in art grew, Craley also began working with Sofia Quintero Art and Cultural Center (SQACC), an organization that provides awareness and education about Latino art, heritage and culture in Toledo. 

“I wanted to get more involved with the community and learn something more about my heritage because I’m Latino and I didn’t grow up with that side of my family,” Craley said. 

When Craley volunteered at a Día de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead) event through SQACC it was the first time he was “engrossed” in Latino culture. Now that he has a deeper understanding of the culture and tradition behind the event, he plans to set an ofrendas (altar) in his home to honor loved ones who have passed.

For his first big volunteering opportunity through SQACC, Craley will be teaching a 10-week art class at an after-school program. He hopes to continue expanding his understanding of Latino culture while working within the community.

Building a community

Through the process of developing a small business, Craley has built friendships and partnerships with other local businesses. He is involved in a few group chats with other business owners, dedicated to asking and answering questions, giving advice and receiving support on how to run a small business.

Craley does not have a dedicated studio space, so he relies on other small businesses to host his classes, fostering collaborations and bringing his art to diverse settings. He said Maumee is a “very supportive community and everybody wants to see everybody else win.” 

The artist collaborates with other LGBTQ+ businesses in the area, including hosting a painting class at Hamburger Mary’s, a drag-themed restaurant in Toledo, and participating in LGBTQ+ art shows at Georgjz419, a LGBTQ+ bar and restaurant. 

Craley said it is amazing to participate in local events where he is surrounded by fellow LGBTQ+ community members who are also finding ways to express their creativity. 

Moving forward, Craley hopes to establish his own studio space to house his workstation, gallery and classroom, while continuing to work with fellow small businesses.

“It’s been an amazing ride so far. I never thought I would be where I’m at today or have the connections that I have or found the community that I’ve found in the last two years,” Craley said. “My circle of friends has completely changed. My outlook on life has completely changed. I can see myself doing this for the rest of my life.

 “I just want to spread happiness. As much happiness as this has given me.” 🔥

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• Check out Thomas Craley’s work by visiting his website, Instagram and Facebook.