Sports Artist Spotlight: Christian Paniagua
Christian Paniagua grew up in New York City, reading comics and admiring graffiti. And along the way he learned to draw, which eventually led to commercial illustration work and sports art.
“I’m looking forward to what the sports market has to offer,” Paniagua says. “Meeting new clients and making lasting connections. My art is always evolving expressing colors, energy, movement, and iconic moments. Capturing sports is the perfect outlet and I hope everyone enjoys the work.”
Christian has spent the last 20 years as a freelance illustrator and graphic designer, learning much about color and his own style and expression. He’s also a published author/illustrator of children’s books, including a recent one on the life of Buck O’Neil which can be found for sale in the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the Kansas City Royals store.
His sports illustrations have also made it onto the MSG Network, with a focus on the New York Knicks.
Not surprisingly, he’s a passionate Yankees fan, and his favorite piece remains a Derek Jeter illustration of the Hall of Famer with his iconic swing.
“I no longer have the original,” he says, “so I recreated the piece as a digital illustration. I’m planning to create a new piece on canvas.”
Paniagua’s goal with his art is simple: Capture the moment and bring it to life again.
“A unique, memorable and lasting gift,” he says of what he hopes his art is viewed as. “Capturing iconic athletes in signature moments.”
Website: cpaniagua.art
Instagram: @cpaniagua.art
Facebook: facebook.com/christian.paniagua.100
