Michael Baresi

My muse visits me and much of my painting beyond the initial drawing is intuitive.
Through the years I have pursued series' in ribbons, Moai statues, desert landscapes vintage autos trucks and more. When a subject has my interest I will usually work in a short series of 3 to 6 paintings or until I feel I have achieved my goal.
I have tried acrylics but nothing compares to the richness of oil paint imho. I have studied the work of old masters as well as my mentor of 30 years (Bill Sala) and find that traditional oil technique suits me well. I prefer a toned canvas before I transfer my drawing. From there I use a grisaille underpainting to establish my darks and lights leaving the highlights and color for last. I pursue the five tonal values in every painting, i.e. body tone, highlight, body shadow, reflected highlights and cast shadow. I love painting aerial perspective.
Whether its the beauty of a landscape or the intrigue of a surreal or allegorical painting, I hope my viewers and patrons will get to know me and my work over many years and always discover something new in the details.
Over many years I have developed a love of color and contrast. Painting has become my peace and my purpose.

At the age of 14 I won a national scholastic competion with a collage I made. It earned me a scholarship to attend art classes at the University of Kansas. Fast forward to now and I have studied with surealists Bill Sala of Castro Valley Cal. (my mentor for 30 years) as well as Bill Martin. Another Cal. surrealist. I suppose you could say I am self taught but I don't believe anyone is truly self taught since we all view and learn from those that have gone before us.

I showed at a couple small galleries in Cal. bay area back in the 80's. Since moving to Arizona I have shown at the Sundust Gallery in Mesa and participated in the Friday night street show. I am a bit of a recluse and I'm much better at painting than selling so my work often goes into my private collection before anyone can see it.