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The digital transformation process perfectly fits my passion for change, in Johannesburg where I live, buildings are demolished and replaced in the blink of an eye - nothing stays the same - the city's intensity permeates everything, keeping us alert, alive and sometimes shocked. Creating digital art has the same effect. For me the variety and excitement of digital transformation has no equal - the spontaneous appearance of new colour combinations, textures, shapes and a million nuances rapidly transforms ones artworks and value judgements all at the same time. Original drawings, paintings, pastels and photos are enhanced or transformed beyond recognition in a flash!
My working background is one of conceptual activity (mainly art direction and copywriting) with advertising agencies in London, Milan, Rome and Johannesburg where I ran my own agency for eighteen years specialising in Hi-Tech and Pharmaceutical products. Born in the UK, Harrow Art School provided my art foundation where I took lively lessons with artists like Peter Blake (Sergeant Pepper's album cover) whilst developing an enduring love for the work of Klee, Kandinsky, Bacon and Duchamp. I left Art School dream-world for the rough and tough world of advertising where I was also lucky enough to work with some of London's leading creatives. Later on, I emigrated to South Africa to work in some of Johannesburg's best agencies. In those days we were something like the 'Madmen' of Madison Avenue, a dedicated bunch of egotists spending big budgets and winning awards. Nowadays I am more than happy (and challenged) to quietly develop my new-found digital skills and spirit in the creation of new artworks on my Mac.
My ArtWorks are the result of a creative alliance between awareness, judgement and machine. Like the golfer who is told to "let the club do the work", I will sometimes just allow the digital process to "do the work" with minimum interference from me. If I have a very specific idea or the 'feel' for an outcome I will be completely hands-on and work my way through the myriad possibilities. Quick judgement is necessary while 'live' with the subject. Sometimes the process will produce such unexpected outcomes that a totally new perspective has to be assessed on its own merits. Preconceived ideas can have a place, but spontaneity and chance rules most of the time.
"Mike creates a visual bridge between traditional and digital art. His work is exciting and inspiring - love it!!!" Wolfgang Grulke. CEO. Futureworld.
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