All About Artists

Nerves of Steel: Exploring the bold, vibrant and optimistic world of David Kracov

Let your imagination take flight through exploring the bright and fearless world of David Kracov

You are reading Nerves of Steel: Exploring the bold, vibrant and optimistic world of David Kracov

By Mae
Born in Boston, David Kracov (1968-) is a critically acclaimed American painter, animator and sculptor. Upon winning a competition at age 12, he became the youngest artist ever to showcase his works at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. His passion for art and literary prowess continued as he attended the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design before moving to Los Angeles to work for major animation companies such as Disney Studios and Warner Bros Studios. Inspired by ever-changing muses of pop culture, Kracov’s artistic vision and unbridled passion for his art have led him to create a unique style that has captured the hearts of young and old alike. 




“When my eyes are closed, I’m thinking and when my eyes are open, I’m creating”



 Since his commissioned world-famous sculpture committed by the Holocaust Museum of St Petersburg, Florida depicting a Tazmanian Devil tearing open a boxcar to set free hundreds of hand-painted butterflies. The butterflies represent the souls of one million children who lost their lives in the Holocaust. This tribute to the precious life of a child lost has since become an inseparable signature trademark to David’s work. Now, a part of his legacy, David adds a single butterfly either visible or hidden in every piece that he has created.

David Kracov, Book of Life, Laser cut, Hand painted metal, 85 x 78 x 80cm. 


David Kracov, Making Beautiful Music, Laser cut, Hand Painted Metal, 123 x 46cm.

Now, a part of his legacy, David adds a single butterfly either visible or hidden in every piece that he has created.As a tribute for those who had lost their lives during 9/11, David spent almost four years creating “Reflections” comprising of New York’s skyline and his signature butterflies soaring towards the sky. In the reflections of this heartwarming sculpture, the twin towers can be seen to stand where the butterflies now fly. These vibrant and bold art pieces carry an optimism for better days in the future. 


Reflections, David Kracov, Laser cut, Hand Painted Metal, 110 x 110cm.


David Kracov, Passing with Flying Colors, Laser cut, Hand Painted, 130cm.

Inspired to use his art to represent and bring joy, David Kracov’s playful and creative masterpieces often utilise varied bold elements that can brighten up one’s day! Through his meticulous steel works and a keen attention to detail, David Kracov is able to bring his art to life. 


David Kracov, Love is in the air colours - vertical, Laser Cut, Hand painted metal, 173 x 71cm. 


David Kracov, I Love Manga, Laser Cut, Hand Painted Metal, 108 x 89cm.

From utilising pop culture references such as comedic and exaggerated onomatopoeic words like ‘Boom!’ and ‘Pow!’ to featuring the iconic smiling faced flowers of Takashi Murakami, David Kracov incorporates vibrant colour with elements of pop culture and witty English puns. 



Through the variety of different fonts, colours and forms  used, he can create a visually exciting piece that makes a loud and bold statement which seems to pop out at you. In doing so, bringing both joy and humour to all while encouraging your creative juices to flow!


David Kracov, Thinking Outside of the Box - Haring, Laser Cut, Hand Painted Metal, 100x 13 x 46cm

These vibrant wall sculptures would not only make delightful and uplifting additions to your home, but also be an empowering and meaningful statement to give yourself an extra boost of optimism! 

Interested in seeing more of David Kracov’s pieces? View more of his art pieces here! 



Back to the top