Michael John Cavanagh

I have always been fascinated by the interplay of light values. From early childhood with my father's help, I started drawing and coloring objects from my surroundings and Disney characters, with the early dream of working for Walt Disney.

As a teen, I discovered the paintings and sculptures of the great European Masters. This revelation led me to dabbling in oil painting, and the realization that I needed training in all facets of Art. Though working 40 hours a week, I entered the night class system at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, attending three nights a week, plus Saturdays. Studying life drawing, pastel, charcoal, ink use, along with watercolor rendering, design and composition.

Work related promotions and military service lead me away from my artist's dream.

I found my teacher/mentor, Professor Lipp at the Paier College of Art. Thankfully, at those night classes my painting gift was brought to bloom.

Leaving the corporate world, I returned to the Midwest to pursue an artist's dream. There followed years of awards, shows and a deep appreciation of my painting's impact on people.

I try to create oil paintings to stir emotions. With that in mind, I invite you to view my work and explore your own d...

School of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago IL.
Paier College of Art, Hamden, CT.