Michael Anderson

Artist Statement

My work explores the tension between calm and conflict, influencing how viewers perceive it. Some marks on the canvas evoke stillness, while others imply conflict. I am attracted to landscapes because they allow me to arrange marks that tell a story that goes beyond representation.

The marks on a canvas convey color and value, so every painting must include the appropriate balance of each to solidify the composition and make it coherent. If done correctly, the painting becomes a tour for the observer to move about on their way to discovery.
I like minimalist subjects as an alternative starting point to landscapes because I can blend them to create art that holds a unique position. That position is barely recognizable as a form of representation.

My goal is to create an emotion that slowly reveals itself to the viewer.