Biography

Garrett Alan Burcham (b. 1987, Upland, California) is an emerging painter based in Seoul, South Korea. He coined the term “psychealism” to describe his distinctive style—a blend of psychological themes with psychedelic and surreal imagery—that centers on imaginative oil landscapes. Working primarily on canvas and often drawing from his own photography, Burcham constructs richly layered compositions that emphasize unconventional perspectives, luminous effects, and intricate detail.

His paintings examine the philosophical tension between beauty and existential depth, employing vast, vibrant skies as dramatic backdrops for dreamlike clouds, atmospheric phenomena, and enigmatic figures or settings. These surreal realms offer subtle commentary on contemporary human experience, while ongoing series such as Introspection (2021–present), shaped by spiritual influences, and Deliberation (2021–present), which explores social, historical, and philosophical themes, showcase the depth of his practice.

Originally trained in theater design (Bachelor of Theater - Design for Theater and Film, University of California, Los Angeles), Burcham draws on his background in staging, lighting, and spatial composition to inform his fine art approach. After years in concept art, freelance illustration, and graphic design, a pivotal shift occurred during the global pandemic: a weekend in Jeju Island’s countryside, marked by sweeping skies and deep conversations with his artistic younger brothers, inspired him to fully embrace oil painting and develop “psychealism.”

Burcham’s work has appeared in select exhibitions, including the solo presentation Flight (2022, Just Glamping, Jeonju, South Korea), the group show Me, We (2023, Lynn Fine Art Gallery, Seoul), and—while still an undergraduate—the prestigious Design Showcase West (2013, UCLA), where he was among the few selected to exhibit alongside graduate students. Burcham continues to establish a distinctive voice in contemporary surreal painting.

CV

Born in Southern California, USA, 1987.

Lives and works in Seoul, South Korea

Education:

Bachelor of Arts - Design for Theater and Film - University of California Los Angeles

Selected Exhibitions / Awards

2023 Me We, Group exhibition, Lynn Fine Art Gallery, Seoul, South Korea

2022 Flight, Solo exhibition, Just Glamping Event, Jeonju, South Korea

2016 Digital Art Contest Winner, Cubebrush.com, Irvine, CA, USA

2013 Design Showcase West,  University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA

2006 Scholarship Winner, Group Exhibition, Shadow Arts Foundation, Palm Springs, CA, USA