Wayne White (artist)

Wayne White (born 1957 in Chattanooga, Tennessee) is an American artist, art director, illustrator, puppeteer, and set designer. He is best known for his large-scale word paintings featuring humorous and often sardonic phrases painted across vintage landscape lithographs.

White's career began in cartooning and illustration, eventually leading him to work in television. He gained significant recognition as a set designer and puppeteer for the television show Pee-wee's Playhouse (1986-1991), for which he won three Emmy Awards.

Following his work in television, White focused on his fine art practice. His word paintings, often addressing themes of consumerism, art world pretension, and the absurdity of life, have become his signature style. He finds vintage landscape prints at flea markets and antique shops, and then paints bold, three-dimensional words across the idyllic scenes, creating a striking juxtaposition of imagery and text.

Beyond his word paintings, White is also known for his large-scale, immersive installations featuring oversized puppet heads and other sculptural elements. These installations are often playful and interactive, inviting viewers to engage with the artwork on a physical level. He has also created public art projects, including murals and sculptures.

White's work is held in numerous public and private collections. His career and artistic process are documented in the 2012 documentary film Beauty Is Embarrassing. He continues to create and exhibit his work internationally.