About Michael
I am a representational artist with a passion for capturing the world through the expressive medium of oils, while also indulging in the diverse realms of watercolor, pen & ink, charcoal, graphite, and gouache. Aspiring to follow in the footsteps of classical luminaries such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Sargent, I am driven to create an artistic legacy as timeless and enduring as the masterpieces that have transcended generations.
My artistic journey commenced in childhood, a time when I discovered the magic of creation through drawing on paper. Nurtured by parents who recognized the significance of the arts, I gleaned my foundational drawing skills from my father who often made drawings of his own. Although initially considering a path in drafting and design, with aspirations of venturing into the realm of technical illustration, destiny had a different course in mind. I found contentment in a conventional career, while reserving my true creative fervor for the life of a fine artist during moments of respite.
A multifaceted evolution has shaped my creative identity. Parallel to my passion for painting, having wielded a camera professionally, I now employ it as a versatile instrument to chronicle my art and amass a trove of visual references. My proficiency in product photography, portraiture, and live music documentation has bestowed upon me invaluable insights that seamlessly intertwine with my artistic pursuits. In my eyes, the camera has metamorphosed into an indispensable asset, augmenting my traditional artistic endeavors.
My odyssey is an homage to tradition, a fusion of skill sets, and a homage to the timeless allure of art.
Artist’s Statement
My art delves into the realms of landscapes and still life, crafting an interplay of dark tones against vibrant contrasts. My shift in natural color tones and temperatures is grounded in the deliberate use of black, enriching the narrative by seamlessly transitioning from shadows to brilliant whites. Color enters the scene with purpose, serving to accentuate value and lend touches of distinction.
In my pursuit of becoming a 'Representational Expressionist', my work transcends the realm of mere replication. Instead, I aspire to evoke emotions and establish connections that stretch far beyond the boundaries of aesthetics. My ultimate aim is for the final piece to encapsulate the profound impression the subject left upon me during my initial encounter.
Travel stands as a wellspring of inspiration, directing my gaze towards landscapes while seamlessly integrating travel and personal mementos into my still life compositions. These narratives breathe life into architectural marvels and scenic grandeur, materializing through the nuanced brushstrokes and vivid hues that define my signature style.
My creative journey finds harmony in the melody of my inner compass, echoing the preferences of patrons and resonating with my personal joy. Each canvas, panel, or sheet of paper bears witness to my artistic voyage, a fusion of landscapes and distant tales that etches a legacy capturing both visual marvels and heartfelt sentiments. Amidst the dance of light and shadow, color and monochrome, my art discovers its authentic voice.