About Page
Artist Statement
Boston native and child prodigy Michael Friedman, the original ARTISTMON, is devoted to the arts. His eighth birthday was highlighted when he was awarded First Place in an 'All Adult Art Competition' for a pencil drawing of one of New England's many lighthouses.
"Art is a living and breathing influence within me," Michael said, during a live radio interview. "It surges through my spirit like essential breath. Birthed within my soul, it has developed into a fierce dynamic. Therefore...I create. I believe this is my kismet, my destiny. Simply put, my philosophy as an artist is captured within this statement; 'To live is to draw, and to draw is to live.'"
Michael's work has received critical acclaim from around the world. Many of his pieces have been purchased by private collectors, including the collections of a Grammy Winning Song Writer and two individual Television/Film Producers. His art was featured in the PALM BEACH DESIGN MAGAZINE, the MIAMI BEACH DESIGN MAGAZINE and the BOCA RATON DESIGN MAGAZINE.
"Art is serious stuff," says Michael. "However, regarding the art scene of today, anything and everything is being labeled as art, without any heed paid to accepted norms and mores. Personally, I believe that as 21st century artists, we have a responsibility to our community's values. Granted, we need to walk our own path; yet producing art which disrespects anothers values - for whatever reason - will eventually lead to the ruin of art and possibly artists. There are times when the foundational principles of art history need to be shaken, but that must not be the driving force for artists on a regular basis. Otherwise, where will the art be which draws mankind upwards into an inspired state of being? Just as there is no freedom without responsibility, art without mature restraint proves false as well. Strong words... but a message we need to heed. Greater inroads into the hearts and minds of the 'movers and shakers' will be made by producing art that inspires our communities to become enthralled and introspective, whereby we'll all grow into better human beings. Art which causes revulsion not only denegrates the medium but will most certainly cause the public to question, 'our motives.' Being a serious artist might lead to lonliness within the current trend to create 'shock art,' but to those few artists who dare to lead, and not follow, some might find insightful strength through the following axiom: 'When has truth ever been determined by a majority vote?'
So... draw on mates. Draw and create! The world needs our voice and vision... especially when those voices are unclouded and forthright, not lacking in integrity."
Exhibitions
12/15/05
THE AGORA GALLERY, SOHO, NYC
PIXAL PERFECT: A DIGITAL FINE ART EXHIBITION
2/2005
Pompano Beach, FL
THE UNCOMMON GALLERY
12/13/04 -
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
THE PARKER PLAYHOUSE
2001
Main Passenger Concourse, Palm Beach International Airport, Palm Beach, FL
CARIBBEAN CALYPSO
2001
Coral Springs Art Museum, FL
TRI-COUNTY ART EXHIBITION
2002
Carrone Gallery - Las Olas Blvd. - Fort Lauderdale, FL
THE HORTT 43
2004
The Broward Art Guild - Fort Lauderdale, FL
SUMMER ART PARTY EXHIBIT
2002
Coral Springs Art Museum, FL
TRI-COUNTY ART EXHIBITION
Reviews and Press
11/22/2000
FORT LAUDERDALES CITY LINK
MICHAEL FRIEDMAN
JULY 2005
The Eclipse of Art
JON STEWERTS THE DAILY SHOW