Darrin Milliner

“At my core, I am really just an artist or someone who is meant to create, whatever that may be. I have always been creating and exploring how to produce things that aren’t already in existence. I don’t think I’ll ever stop doing that and I’m not sure if I ever can.”

Darrin Milliner (b. 1992) is a self-taught artist, designer, and archivist of printed materials based in Pittsburgh, PA. Milliner creates objects and images that distort and combine recognizable elements of commercial imagery to highlight the importance of the separate worlds that empower or limit each of us. Milliner’s work has been exhibited throughout Pennsylvania and Louisville, KY, including a solo exhibition, Interlude, at CDCP Project Space in 2020.

Artist Statement:

My artwork creates surprising commentaries on society and consumer culture. I try to understand and portray mindsets that many of us may have but can’t express or visualize. By taking every opportunity to absorb various subjects (people, ideas, actions, mindsets, etc.) that spark emotion and action, and bring them to the forefront of my work.

For years, I have been collecting old vintage books, piles of magazines, posters, and other printed materials for references and source image materials. In my studio, I carefully select, cut, and assemble these materials into new visuals and works of art. I focus on color relationships, repeating patterns, and thought-provoking text to grab the viewers’ attention. Working both by hand and digitally allows me to create unique designs that wouldn’t be possible otherwise.

 Photo by Martell Hardy