About Christopher Smart, A Colorblind Artist

Christopher Smart is a Florida-based artist, designer, and children's book author and illustrator known for his vibrant depictions of marine life and his unconventional approach to color. As a colorblind artist, Christopher brings a unique perspective to his work—one that challenges traditional ideas of accuracy and instead emphasizes contrast, composition, and emotional impact.

His artwork often explores the beauty and mystery of the ocean, featuring subjects like octopuses, rays, and other marine creatures rendered in bold, dynamic palettes. Without relying on typical color perception, Smart has developed an intuitive process that transforms limitation into a defining creative strength.

In addition to his fine art, Christopher is the founder of Retro Grappler, a design-driven apparel brand rooted in Jiu Jitsu culture. He is also the creator of children’s books such as The ABCs of Jiu Jitsu and The ABCs of CrossFit, blending education, movement, and art into engaging visual storytelling.

Through all of his work, Christopher aims to inspire others to see differently—and to recognize that creativity doesn’t come from perfect vision, but from perspective.