Kostar (Brian Kostar) is a self-taught artist known for his “Art for the Beautifully Weird,” a captivating blend of familiar imagery, clever puns, pop culture references, and wordplay. Often, his pieces subtly incorporate Florida wildlife, adding a local touch.
A signature element in every Kostar original painting or drawing is a skull. This isn’t just a design choice; it’s a nod to the profound influence of Dia de los Muertos on his artistic journey. The vibrant colors of this holiday inspired him to transition from black and white pen and pencil art to the bold, colorful painter he is today. The skull serves as a constant homage to the inspiration that shaped his distinctive style. At its heart, it’s a powerful reminder of our shared humanity. In a world often focused on division, recognizing our common ground is more crucial than ever. It’s a hopeful message that our similarities can ultimately bring us closer
Kostar has become a thriving presence in the St. Petersburg and Bay Area art scene. His work has been featured in galleries, magazine articles, and live TV interviews, and his prints, stickers, and original art can be found in various retail locations.