Taras Kripps
Taras Kripps was born in Na’alehu on the Big Island of Hawaii, January 17, 1985. His family moved to Cambodia for the following three years of his life, while his parents worked as nutritionists for war relief/ support efforts, post the Khmer Rouge genocides. The family subsequently returned to Summerland, British Columbia, Canada, where they lived on a rural homestead his mother and father owned. Spending their time between Hawaii, Canada and Australia, Taras grew up in diverse environments, working local labour jobs, and immersed himself in the art and music of each culture.
Taras moved to Los Angeles at nineteen years of age, to pursue a career as a guitarist. Producing multiple albums with various bands, working as a specialised guitarist with a collection of blues and rock artists, Taras developed his skillsets and enjoyed success in the creative development corner of the music industry. Eventually, he returned to Canada, hoping to mitigate some growing personal issues. He spent a number of years as a professional poker player, achieving a fourth place finish at the World Series of Poker Championships in Las Vegas.
Habits and shadows followed throughout his path. Lifelong battles with addiction, mental instability and a wild restlessness eventually found him critically in need of change. Deciding to permanently move to Sydney Australia in June of 2015, following several relapses and rehabs, a chance encounter with a former graduate of NAS reignited his passion for painting. This led him to apply for a Bachelor of Fine Arts program at the National Arts School, which he can be quoted stating to be “the best rehab of all.” Having completed his degree, being offered an MFA slot, and committing to full time painting, Taras can now be found living and painting in the shared studio space he calls home in Marrickville.