Derek DeYoung, a celebrated contemporary artist known for his vibrant depictions of aquatic life, is redefining the intersection of art and music by painting on Breedlove guitars. These one-of-a-kind pieces transform premium instruments into high art, marrying DeYoung‘s passion for creativity with his lifelong love of the outdoors.The Genesis of Guitars as a Canvas
DeYoung’s journey into guitar art began with a less-than-perfect instrument. “The first guitar I painted was the worst guitar,” he recalls. Despite attempting to improve its playability, the instrument remained subpar. Still, the experience sparked an idea: the guitar, even if flawed musically, could become a stunning visual masterpiece.
“That first attempt made me realize how special a painted guitar could be,” says DeYoung. Over time, he transitioned from using basic instruments to working with high-quality Breedlove guitars, where his detailed, colorful fish designs complement the craftsmanship of the instruments themselves.
A Musician at Heart
Although DeYoung doesn’t consider himself a virtuoso, his connection to music runs deep. “I’ve been playing guitar since I was 20, but for me, it’s more like meditation,” he explains. “When I’m tired of painting, I’ll pick up a guitar, play for five minutes, and then go back to painting.” Music provides a creative reset, helping him recharge and return to his art with renewed energy.
He fondly recalls moments of camaraderie and music during his travels. “At fishing lodges around the world, there’s often a guitar lying around. Even if you can only play a little, it’s so much fun,” DeYoung says, recounting an impromptu jam session in Alaska involving a dobro guitar and good company.
A Life of Art and the Outdoors
DeYoung’s artistic roots run as deep as his love for fishing. “I’ve been an artist my whole life,” he says. Growing up near water, his fascination with what lies beneath the surface fueled his imagination and became a recurring theme in his work. “There’s this connection between fishing and art—imagining what’s in the dark water or what might hit your lure. That curiosity lives in the same place as my artistic brain.”
DeYoung’s ability to visualize and reinterpret his surroundings is central to his creative process. Whether it’s the interplay of light on a fish’s scales or the energy of a moment on the water, his art captures both the beauty and the story behind it. “At first glance, you might see a fish or a tarpon,” he says of his paintings. “But look closer, and there’s a story behind it—something playful, something deeper.”
Collaborating with Breedlove
Partnering with Breedlove Guitars has allowed DeYoung to bring his unique vision to a new medium. By painting on instruments renowned for their quality and sustainability, he elevates both the guitar and his art. These painted guitars become more than tools for music—they’re a testament to creativity, passion, and the harmony between art forms.
As DeYoung continues to blur the lines between art, music, and the natural world, his work on Breedlove guitars stands as a celebration of all three. Whether on canvas or a guitar body, his art invites viewers and players alike to see the world—and the instruments they use—with fresh eyes.
For DeYoung, the connection between fishing, art, and music is seamless. “It’s about understanding and appreciating what’s happening around you,” he says. Whether he’s casting a line, strumming a chord, or painting a masterpiece, DeYoung’s work is a tribute to the moments that inspire creativity—and the ways those moments can be shared with others.
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