Artist Bio and Statement
Artist Bio:
Michael Bettinger first began creating art, not as a painter, but as a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. His experiences performing in and around the New York Metropolitan area would serve to open his mind to new and diverse forms of self-expression and culture; themes which would later prove invaluable to his work as a visual artist.
Born in New York in 1977, Michael didn't discovered his true potential for painting until his late thirties, but others were quick to take notice. He received scholarships to Maine College of Art, as well as the New York Academy of Art where he soaked up as much formal, artistic education as he could. However, there is nothing formal or commonplace about his work.
For inquiries, please contact Michael at bettingerart@gmail.com
Artist Statement:
Through my art, I seek to transform difficult, distressing, and complicated emotions into something beautiful. It is an honest exploration into the mind of the grief-stricken, the addicted, and the mentally ill. Much like the people suffering with these ailments, my art may appear unsettling or even frightening. While intentional, my goal is not to provoke fear, but to promote empathy. The more humane the world, the more beautiful it might be.