Much of my illustration work is influenced by early British and American story book artists such as Arthur Rackman and K. Nielson and the more contemporary images found on the bottom of skateboards. In my work the bold colors and thick lines of modern cartooning meet the old-fashioned methods and whimsy of the classic illustrators. I work mainly with pencils and brushes and color with watercolors. What you see is work done for both personal and commercial interests. I have done work for many local business in Burlington Vermont, where I live. This includes illustrations used in ads, T-shirts, and signs. I have done murals, album covers, and posters and designed a series of decorative patches used by a local school. I have illustrated two books for Maupin house press and currently am an illustrator for the 7-days, Burlington's premier arts and entertainment newspaper. I recently finished a storybook called The Boy and the Furnace, which I wrote and illustrated. I sell the self-published books in a local cafe or on request via email.

In addition to my illustrative work I also make large-scale acrylic and mixed media paintings. These works provide a counter balance to the precise and measured process of my illustration. Usually measuring at least four feet by four feet the large compositions allow for a more physical expression. They are done rapidly with thick fluid gobs of paint. Mainly dictated by impulse and feeling the paintings act as a tool for internal exploration, a sort of self plumbing. My anything goes approach often leads to weird and seemingly random imagery. My primary goal is to make exciting and dynamic compositions that engage the viewer with a strange sense of wonderment.

I am largely self-taught. I did however attend the Maine school of art for a year and when in high school the Bennington July program on a full scholarship. But believing that it is vision above all that makes good art I opted to find my own way. I am currently looking for professional illustration opportunities or venues for exhibition.

I can be contacted at
deadmoonsky@yahoo.com
or
(802)-363-4962

Thank you, Michael