Michael Hanna
Michael Hanna’s artistic journey is one defined by a deep exploration of structure, space, and contemporary identity. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts from New Jersey City University (NJCU), Michael’s education has played a crucial role in shaping his work, particularly in the realm of art publishing. "My education has helped more in my publishing career rather than my personal artistic endeavors," he notes, emphasizing the value of his academic foundation in developing his writing and critical thinking abilities.
A Foundation in Education
Michael’s formal education in fine arts at NJCU was instrumental in honing his skills, especially in writing and art history. "Taking several art history courses helped me to develop my writing further," he explains. This academic background has been particularly beneficial in his role as curator and editor of Aedra Fine Arts, an art publisher that values critical review and contemporary discourse. Through his work at Aedra Fine Arts, Michael has cultivated a keen understanding of contemporary art trends, which continues to influence his personal and professional projects.
Michael’s creative journey is marked by his willingness to experiment with various genres, styles, and mediums. "I work in five formats: large oil paintings of interiors, abstract minimalist digital Photoshop art, digitally altered original photography, and video art of textures and surfaces," he shares. This diverse approach allows him to explore different facets of artistic expression, particularly when he feels burned out in one medium. "Working with various methods of expression funnels unexpected inspirations and results," he adds, highlighting the fluidity with which he transitions between different forms of art.
The Recurring Theme of Structure
One of the central themes in Michael’s work is the concept of structure. His paintings often portray contemporary interiors, with a focus on linearity and geometry. "Structure as a theme represents the basis for contemporary design elements as well as a vehicle for expressing a desire to influence postmodern aesthetic trends," he explains. This theme is not only a visual motif but also a reflection of his contemplation on space, form, and how these elements relate to contemporary identity.
Michael is inspired by both the contemporary artists published in his catalogue at Aedra Fine Arts and the curated collections on platforms like Saatchi Art. "Sometimes I spend hours at a time browsing Saatchi Art’s various curated collections and databases," he shares. These influences, while not directly impacting his style, often provide inspiration through clever geometric compositions or color schematics that he encounters.
A Unique Creative Process
Michael’s creative process is rooted in discipline and structure, a methodology he developed during his time in university. "I always start with a crayon drawing and then base my painting on my drawing," he says, describing a routine he developed in a challenging Drawing and Composition class. This approach, which involves deliberate distortion and the fusion of images, allows him to create compositions that are entirely his own. Michael’s work is deeply influenced by his surroundings, with inspiration often drawn from the vast interiors of rooms, the play of shadows, and the interaction of light with objects.
Like many artists, Michael experiences periods of low inspiration. However, he has learned to push through these blocks by forcing himself to work anyway. "Sometimes some of my best paintings were done while not feeling inspired initially," he reflects. This determination to create, even in the absence of inspiration, has been key to his success and growth as an artist.
Reflections and Future Aspirations
Michael’s work is deeply introspective, exploring themes of isolation, contemplation, and one’s place in postmodern society. "The overall theme would be structure, and the message could be interpreted as a study in relationships of space and how such a concept relates to contemporary identity," he explains. This exploration of space and structure is not just a visual exercise but also a philosophical inquiry into the nature of contemporary existence.
As he looks to the future, Michael aspires to continue pushing the boundaries of his work, staying true to his creative vision while navigating the external pressures and trends of the art world. He encourages aspiring artists to immerse themselves in contemporary art, rather than focusing solely on historical works. "Museums are nice, but they tend to be graveyards," he advises, urging new artists to seek fresh ideas and inspiration from current trends and living artists.
For those interested in following Michael’s work, he encourages readers to visit his artist website, where they can view his full portfolio and stay updated on his latest exhibitions and projects. Additionally, Aedra Fine Arts continues to serve as a platform for critical review and contemporary art publishing, reflecting Michael’s commitment to advancing the discourse in the art world.
