About Max The Virus
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
Max The Virus emerged in 2021 from Marc Craig's creative exploration during the rise of a new AI platform. Tired of the constant negativity surrounding viruses after the pandemic, Marc aimed to create something positive—a counter-narrative to the pervasive gloom
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Encouraged by a friend, Marc designed a virus character, using AI as inspiration. Among many iterations, one image captured his imagination. He refined and enhanced this character, ultimately bringing Max The Virus to life, transforming it into a symbol of creativity and resilience.
LEAKE STREET/WATERLOO
Marc Craig, the current artist in residence at Leake Street, is using the space to experiment with his creation, Max The Virus. The ever-changing walls provide opportunities for Max The Virus to interact with the environment in unique ways.
Marc's work with Max The Virus has experienced significant breakthroughs, steady progress, and interesting setbacks. As the character evolves, it continually finds new ways to connect with the Leake Street community and express its identity. This interaction enriches Max The Virus and enhances the experience for those who encounter it, embodying the dynamic, collaborative spirit of Leake Street.
DIGITAL AND BEYOND
Marc Craig has discovered that Max The Virus can uniquely reinterpret iconic art. Using the iPad, Marc refines original visual language, channeling energy into vibrant forms that connect with both past and present artists.
Max The Virus reimagines classics like the Mona Lisa infusing them with new, bold, fresh energy. Leake Street’s expansive walls may offer a canvas for bold public art, but the iPad allows for intricate expression. This dual approach lets Marc explore a broader range of artistic possibilities.
Through Max The Virus, Marc captures a creative cycle, bridging past and present, and paving the way for future expressions to be discovered/.
LEAKE STREET PORTRAITS
CONNECTING WITH THE LEAKE STREET COMMUNITY
Marc Craig believes that the best part of creating at Leake Street is connecting with the diverse people who frequent the space. To him, Leake Street is more than just graffiti and street art; it's a hotbed of vibrant creativity, where innovative individuals blend with the space's unpredictable nature. These connections have deeply enriched Marc’s creative output. To celebrate these inspiring individuals, Marc decided to create Max The Virus portraits of them. He plans to complete 52 portraits, one for each week of his year as the artist in residence, honoring the impact of these amazing people.