His artistic journey began in 1985 when he embarked on self-taught graphic design, and he actively painted from 1993 to 2002. In 2003, he transitioned to procedural and generative digital art, marking a significant shift in his creative expression. In 2009, he expanded his repertoire to include digital photography, quickly integrating generative techniques to enhance his work. Since 2012, Calhoun's artistic endeavors have focused on themes of complexity, iteration, and symmetry. In 2022, he began exploring prompt and diffusion technology, further enriching his iterative art practice.
A turning point in Calhoun's career occurred in 2014 when he was discovered by Deba Gray, a notable figure in the Cleveland art scene. This encounter led to his first solo exhibition, "The Grasp of Order," which was presented by Gray and Serena Harrigan at Grays Auctioneers in Cleveland from 2016 to 2017, marking a significant milestone at the age of 59.
Though primarily recognized as a visual artist, Calhoun's work is deeply influenced by his musical background. An accomplished instrumentalist, he specializes in pedal and lap steel guitars as well as synthesizers, and has served as a sound designer and composer. Between 2001 and 2015, he released ten recordings under the name Kamelmauz. Additionally, Calhoun is a theorist in experiential learning, emphasizing its importance in adult development. Now retired, he has previously worked in organizational development and the music industry, identifying himself as an experiential artist who continually seeks to push the boundaries of his creative practice.
