In October 2005 American Art Collector’s premiere issue debuted and revolutionized the art market by previewing exhibitions instead of the industry standard of reviewing the show after it opened. The magazine’s mission was simple—to bring together galleries, artists and collectors before the artwork was sold—and that continues today. We know this magazine would not be what it is without the galleries, artists, collectors and events that have offered their support, so join us over the next year as we visit with artists and gallery owners as well as look back on articles and events that have helped shape this publication.

A Look Back: Celebrating 15 Years of Art

Danny McCaw: The First Cover Artist

One of the most exciting, and challenging, tasks that happens with every issue of this magazine is selecting the cover artwork. With the first edition, we wanted to make a splash with our arrival to the art market and selected Danny McCaw’s painting Paris Cafe from an exhibition at the former Wendt Gallery in Laguna Beach, California, that he had with his father, Dan McCaw, and brother, John McCaw. The works were derived from a trip to Europe, including this cover painting, and they displayed his desire to be fearless in his artwork.

At the time, he said, “Every artist is on their own individual journey. Mine is that of exploration and self-discovery. Crossing the lines of fear and frustration, I challenge not only myself, but also my art. I never want to be confined or limited by any one specific way of approaching or thinking about art.”

In the 15 years following, McCaw is still finding ways to push and experiment with his artwork, but with years of experience under his belt. “I’ve learned to trust myself and my ideas more. I’ve been focusing on figures for a while now, but I think this will be changing or evolving soon; I let it happen organically and never force it,” he explains. “I have also broadened my perspective on art and art history and have a whole new mindset going into my approach. I’m always looking for growth so I’m still working in oil paint, but I’m doing things in a new ways to challenge and confuse myself. By doing this it allows me to find new answers.”Orange Box, oil on canvas, 60 x 60"

McCaw’s artwork has appeared in countless museum exhibitions and he has had about 12 solo exhibitions since his debut in our pages. McCaw, his father and brother also opened their own studio that allows them to have exhibitions several times a year, including one that is set for December. He also will have work at Gallery 1261 in Denver as part of an online exhibition in the coming months, while a show is planned with Laguna Beach-based Sue Greenwood Fine Art for 2021. —