The Outside: The Artwork of Greg “Craola” Simkins (2013)
The Outside is a stunning retrospective monograph showcasing the vibrant, surreal, and intricately detailed artwork of Greg “Craola” Simkins, a California-based artist whose work bridges street art, pop surrealism, and fantastical narrative painting. Published in 2013, this visually arresting book captures Simkins’ evolution from his early days as a graffiti writer to his emergence as a celebrated contemporary fine artist.
Filled with lush, otherworldly imagery, The Outside immerses readers in Simkins’ unique universe—where anthropomorphic animals, crumbling classical architecture, and dreamlike landscapes collide in hyper-saturated colors. His signature pieces, like “The Escape Artist” and “I’m Scared of What’s Outside,” blend whimsy with existential depth, often exploring themes of childhood nostalgia, environmental fragility, and the tension between reality and imagination.
For Fans of Simkins’ Style or Contemporary Surrealism:
- Ephemeral Truths (Camille Rose García, 2010) – Darkly whimsical paintings merging fairy tales and social commentary.
- The Art of Mitch O’Connell (2012) – Bold, pop-infused illustrations with a playful edge.
- Beautiful Bizarre (Danijela Krha Purssey, 2017) – A curated collection of contemporary surrealist and lowbrow artists.
