Tony Curanaj (b. 1973) was born and raised in New York. He is a young, dynamic, multi-talented painter who studied at the School of Visual Arts, The National Academy of Design and the acclaimed Water Street Atelier.

Curanaj’s style is illustrative, stemming from his multifarious involvement in a myriad of artistic endeavors. Although his focus was always on classical painting, Tony did start his fine art career as an innovator and a legendary influence in the worldwide graffiti scene (known as “SUB”), and a founder of the esteemed “D.F.” crew. His reputation for executing work of the highest quality landed him at Disney as a head designer and painter before his decision to concentrate solely on his love for representational realism. In the late l990’s, Curanaj met Jacob Collins and became a member of The Water Street Atelier, an institution founded on the ideals of academic realism, where his studies and skills flourished. The subjects he chooses to depict are classic, edgy and masterfully executed with painstaking care. His paintings are beautifully designed with brush strokes that are concise and controlled. His colors emotive, intelligent and captivating lending results that are stunning to behold.

Curanaj currently at The Grand Central Atelier in New York City as well as workshops around the country. He co-hosts the Suggested Donation Podcast with Edward Minoff.