When Michael J. Downs creates a work of art, it is his goal for the viewer to be drawn into the everyday yet extraordinary beauty of the world he constantly sees around him. Conceptually, Michael was born an artist and started drawing as far back as he can recall. This has had a great impact on how he sees the world around him. Scenes that may daily go unnoticed by most, or perhaps might be taken for granted by others can be extraordinary sources of beauty and inspiration for Michael.
Technically, Michael uses his abundance of skill to masterfully capture and portray not only the striking physical likeness in his mostly figurative subject matter, but also a deeper spiritual contemplative essence. Hence this has earned Michael J. Downs the monicker "Contemplative figure Painter."
PUBLISHED BY:
March 2004 - Artist's Magazine
Cover and Feature Article
November 2003 - Southwest Art
Cover and Article
March 2003 - International Artist
April/May 2001 - Focus Santa Fe
FORMAL EDUCATION:
1987 to 1990 Capilano College, North Vancouver, BC
Graphic Design and Illustration - Diploma (three year)
Mary Martin has collections of art showing at the Andell Inn - Kiawah Island, Bella Grace, the Harbour Club, The Vendue, Holy City Brewery, Amish Furniture, and other venues. Mary Martin Galleries have been selected as the best galleries in South Carolina for eleven years in a row and in the top 20 galleries in the nation, Also, selected as the best gallery by several local publications.
