Contemporary Oil/Mixed Media Images by M. Vick

Artists:

HISTORY: Growing up in Kentucky, of part Cherokee heritage, I learned to appreciate the mystic beauty of nature at an early age. At first I expressed my love of nature through landscape paintings. Later I did portraits of Native Americans, using photographs as models, and used Native American themes in later paintings. Now I lean toward non-objective works, mostly in mixed media. Most of the art I collect is also non-objective or abstract.

METHOD: I work with texture, color, forms and lines. The texture is formed using plaster-like substances that adhere well to canvas. I "draw" the images in texture, then use oil paints for color and glazes to finish the painting. Sometimes I use thin metal forms to create a center of interest. Copper is one of my favorite metals. Occasionally I use polymer clay for figures in the paintings. I'm always searching for new materials to use that will enhance the works and make them unique.

MY PHILOSOPHY OF ART: Painting is my way of expressing the creativity we are given. I must paint for the same reasons others must write, make music, dance or act.
Paintings are like children. You raise your child to be the best they can be, then you send them out into the world to do their work. I create my paintings to the very best of my ability and enjoy bringing them to life. Then I send them out into the world to do their work—to help create a beautiful environment for others to enjoy.

FUTURE: I will continue to grow as an artist. In each new painting the evolution is evident. Contemporary images emerge as the paintings progress, bringing to life new creations for the enjoyment of many souls.