written by
Greg Ciro Tornincasa

Inspiration from around the globe is so accessible these days—but sometimes it’s not much further than your own backyard. Instagram is my hunting ground, and I have a treasure trove of inspiration saved to various collections for easy go-to when we’re in the trenches with our next campaign or brand build.

Check out these 3 local Bay Area artists who’ve been keeping me inspired lately.

@fnnch

I discovered @fnnch the same way most of you likely did—wandering the streets of San Francisco. I was lucky enough to find him early on, followed him on Instagram, and quickly slid into his DMs to chat about a private commission. ‘Totem Lips’ is still my favorite piece of art in my home. What I love most about Fnnch is his purpose, and it’s not complicated—to make people stop and smile. Hard not to enjoy art that brings out the best in us.

@wertzateria

I noticed @wertzateria‘s work a couple of years ago on the gram, then on a coworkers calendar, and soon in various local campaigns, books, and event posters. I love his whimsical illustration style and the fanciful spirit he brings to everything he touches. He doesn’t know this yet, but I’ve been secretly praying to the new business gods for a client in need of a fun campaign to collaborate with him on. 2020 ya here me?!

@brianbarneclo

My short commute between San Francisco and the Peninsula often gives me just enough zone-out time to conjure up creative ideas while driving or catching the train. Stepping off Caltrain one evening, I landed face first into @brianbarneclo (his huge mural that is). His gritty funky urban style caught my attention and though abstract, it all made perfect sense. It’s awesome seeing his work progress on the gram and getting a glimpse into the spaces that are lucky enough to wear his art.

• Design
• Fun