Michael Orwick

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Born in: 1975, USA

Lives in: Oregon, United States

Media: Painting

Describe your work in 3 words: Peaceful, relaxing and joyous

See More Work:  www.OrwickArts.com and www.MichaelOrwick.com

Changing Season - Oil on canvas 48 x 72 in.

"The effects of light and atmosphere are what I remember about a location and what inspires me most. Light transforms the ordinary or even beautiful into the exceptional. My quest is to capture these fleeting moments and help people see things again through new eyes."

What themes does your work involve?
Landscape and Nature: As a native Oregonian, I cannot separate my art from my love of the Pacific Northwest. The coast, mountains, and meadows, each infused with mysterious light and atmosphere, weave narratives into their settings. I am inspired to tell their stories with my paint and brush strokes. Inspiration comes so naturally here.
What influences your work? What inspires you? Why do you make art?
Painting in nature forces me to be keenly aware of myself, yet willing to get out of the way, to practice humility and to clear my ego. It is thus that I may show gratitude while I try in some little way to honor the beauty before me.
What is good art? What makes a piece of art great?
When it makes you see things again through fresh eyes. Good art can challenge you and change you. Good art can comfort you or push you to be and do better.
What is the role of the artist today?
Just as Albert Einstein wrote, “Our task must be to free ourselves…by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty,” Our rolls can be whatever we are into, but for me, it is about reminding people of the magic that surrounds us if we can take just a little time to be quiet and look deeply.
The Golden Gate - Oil on canvas 72 x 48 in.

 

This interview was published by Circle Foundation for the Arts. © CFA Press ∙ Images are courtesy of the artist