
Michael Clingerman
Born: 1972
Hometown: San Francisco
Based in: Akron, Ohio
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Born: 1972
Hometown: San Francisco
Based in: Akron, Ohio
Michael is an artist and sculptor deeply fascinated by the complexities of human relationships and societal influences. His work spans a broad range, from intricate sculptures to expansive color field paintings, each piece a testament to his commitment to capturing the essence of our shared humanity.
In his sculptural works, Michael delves into the devolution of the human spirit through symbolic forms. His pieces range from playful and innocent to intimidating and corrupt, reflecting the impact of external forces on the human spirit. Rabbits, symbolizing innocence and purity, appear in both intact and crushed forms, while abstracted pigs represent the scavengers amidst societal decay. Employing traditional and contemporary techniques, he works with a variety of materials, including bronze, clay, plaster, wood, marble, and other stone.
Parallel to his sculptural practice, Michael's exploration of large-scale painting, particularly color field painting, showcases his love of meditation and his quest for serenity through color and space. His latest series of small color field paintings, executed in Speedball Inks on archival papers, serves as a meditative exploration of color and emotion. These intimate compositions act as studies for larger works, creating tranquil spaces where viewers can immerse themselves in the subtle interplay of hues and forms. The deliberate simplicity of the color fields evokes a range of subtle emotions, encouraging viewers to engage in a quiet, introspective dialogue with the artwork.
Through these studies, Michael emphasizes the intimacy of the viewing experience, inviting a closer, more personal engagement with the art. This approach underscores his belief in the profound impact that subtle shifts in color and form can have on our emotional landscape, offering a serene and contemplative escape from the complexities of daily life.
Michael's work, whether in sculpture or painting, invites viewers to contemplate the delicate balance between innocence and the external forces that shape our existence. He hopes his art fosters a deeper understanding of our own lives and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.
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From San Francisco to Seattle and now in Ohio, historic north Akron is a fantastic place to be creative. It is closer to family and has an incredible amount of space. I feel blessed to have had space constraints in the past, and now all the space I need to do large-scale paintings is yet to come. Stay tuned and thank you, as always, for looking. I genuinely hope you find the peace of your dreams!
What inspires you?
With my sculpture, I'm inspired by humanities rise and fall in consciousness. I'm also heavily influenced by my meditation practice and the miracles I've seen abroad. Painting, I'm heavily influenced by Colfield painters of the past, including Mark Rothko, and many others. I choose to mix, tard emotions and people when making my colorful paintings.
Describe your creative process.
, My creative process involves identifying an individual and establishing an emotion and color.
What are 3 words that best describe your work?
Zen Insightful Deapth
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
Kandinsky, Mark Rothco, Richard Serra, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Henry Moore
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
In sculpture, my thumbs and rake comb, in painting, Filbert Paint Brush.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
Listen to your heart and allow the art to flow.
Where do you go for inspiration?
Forest and the ocean.
Education
Kent State University
United States of America, 2018
Savannah college of art and design
United States of America, 1995
Exhibitions
Bronze Abstracts
United States of America, 2004
Marble from Pietrasanta
Monaco, 2001
Marble from Pietrasanta
Italy, 2001