ARTIST STATEMENT
Our minds are bombarded by thousands of pieces of sensory data at each moment. We tend to process only what we can- or must- by filtering out this deluge of information. We are programmed to focus on the essentials required to fulfill the task or agenda at hand. The vast majority of our daily experiences barely register and simply fall through the cracks.

“It is from this trove of discarded data that I strive to suss out those hidden visual treasures we often overlook: a pattern of light on a wall, filtered by curtains or shimmering trees on late afternoons; the beautiful and astounding ability of naturally occurring processes such as rust or rock striation to create perfectly crafted compositions, windows into other worlds which are indifferent to our recognition; random visual components arranged by chance in such specific configurations and held together so tenuously that they vanish like unstable elements in an instant with a single distraction or just one more hurried step along our heedless path.”

For Michael Brake - the artist - this data becomes a language ripe for translation open to differing interpretations. Thus it is not necessarily imperative to spell out or impose meaning if that act may limit or confine the viewer’s personal experience.

Michael imbues a dream-like, abstract perspective inspired by these found accidental stages. Along with layering patterns and textures from his photography he develops organically-stylized interpretive drawings inspired by these random compositions. Working simultaneously in different mediums helps him to craft a cohesive artistic language, resulting in engaging art work inviting the viewer to freely participate in divining whatever personal connections their subconscious selves can conjure.

Michael Brake graduated in 1991 from the Kansas City Art Institute with a BFA in Painting.

TECHNIQUE
Michael's mixed media digital collage technique is derived from imagery and textures across multiple influences. He enjoys the freedom of not being confined to a single medium, and it serves him well.

He paints textures using acrylics, dye, ink, powders and even salt. I then photograph the results to use as digital layers in current or future works.

He loves creating large scale charcoal drawings which are abstract, organic interpretations of his own photography, which itself focuses on dilapidated industrial areas, natural settings and textures he discovers on his outings. Charcoal is by far the most enjoyable medium for him. It helps him to develop and strengthen his style which reverberates throughout his work as well as to train his photographic eye.

Each final piece is densely layered, using elements from a myriad of these independent facets. Often Michael finds himself upwards of 65 different digital layers and filters before he deems a piece finished.

And finally, his resin application adds an organic, almost lenticular feel to each piece. Because each resin pouring is different, this ensures that each piece is one of a kind.

"Analogously- as with my influences and subject matter- there is more to my work than meets the eye."

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Portfolio: