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Spotlight on Keenan McAteer: Mastering the Art of Character and Emotion

Spotlight on Keenan McAteer: Mastering the Art of Character and Emotion

In the vast world of digital art, few artists capture the depth and emotion of characters as vividly as @keenanmcateerart. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Keenan’s work brings beloved characters to life in ways that resonate deeply with fans and art enthusiasts alike.

A Glimpse into Keenan’s Artistic Journey

Keenan’s artistic journey is characterized by a dynamic exploration of various mediums. From oil paintings to digital illustrations, he embraces a diverse range of techniques to express his creativity. As he shared in an interview with Hollr:

“I do oil paintings, digital paintings sometimes, and drawings. Those are the main three really. I dabbled with watercolour a while ago but wasn’t very good at it. It’s quite hard as well!”

This versatility not only showcases his technical skills but also his willingness to experiment and grow as an artist.

Drawing Inspiration from Gaming and Pop Culture

A significant influence on Keenan’s work comes from his love for video games and pop culture. Titles like The Witcher, Red Dead Redemption 2, and Horizon Zero Dawn have inspired numerous pieces that pay homage to these games’ rich narratives and complex characters. His art often features protagonists like Arthur Morgan, Geralt of Rivia, and Ciri, capturing their essence with remarkable accuracy and emotion.

“I drew the main character from Horizon Zero Dawn. I’ve got a lot of art books, I’ve got one of the art of Metal Gear Solid V. That’s another inspiration as well, he’s called Yoji Shinkawa. He’s the artist that does all the Metal Gear, his stuff is amazing and all the designs he comes up with.”

These influences are evident in his work, where he blends his interpretations with the original character designs, creating a unique fusion that resonates with fans and newcomers alike.

The Art of Storytelling Through Portraiture

What sets Keenan apart is his ability to convey deep emotion through portraiture. Whether it’s the rugged determination of Arthur Morgan or the introspective gaze of Geralt, each piece tells a story. His use of lighting, expression, and composition adds layers of depth, inviting viewers to connect with the characters on a personal level.

Looking Ahead

As Keenan continues to hone his craft, there’s no doubt that his work will evolve and inspire. His ambition to one day have a personal gallery where people can experience his art firsthand speaks to his dedication and passion for sharing his creations with the world.

“I’d like to have a little summer house to put my own gallery in, where people can come and look at stuff and buy things and get photos taken for commissions. I think that would be cool.”

This vision reflects his commitment to not only creating art but also building a community where others can appreciate and engage with his work.


If you’re captivated by Keenan’s art, be sure to follow him on Instagram at @keenanmcateerart. His feed is a testament to the power of character, emotion, and storytelling in art.