Kansas Weather Captured with Artistic Vision - Artist Michael Duane

What is that quote about Kansas weather from Mark Twain? “If you don’t like the weather in Kansas, just wait a minute.” This quote brings to mind the next featured artist at SouthWind Gallery, Michael Duane. Fascinated with weather, he captures the beautiful scenic Flint Hills with the sharp contrasts of an oncoming thunderstorm or a simple far-off cloud in pastel. After seeing his work for the first time several years ago during a Mid America Pastel Society show we hosted, I can not travel through the Flint Hills on a late spring day without thinking about Michael’s work. So for me this show is quite timely as the living landscape begins to blossom with rolling hills of green after the spring burn. The opening for the exhibit titled Ethereal Visions of the Flint Hills: a one man show of new works by Michael Duane at SouthWind Gallery will be April 2, 6:00 - 8:30 during the First Friday Art Walk.Come in and visit with the artist!

While talking to Michael about his work, the source of his inspiration is palpable as he recalls his first tornado at the age of seven with one word “Wow!” The terror of the storm faded away as he watched in with rapt wonder the towering clouds that boiled and rotated. Since that day and he has been spellbound with the ever changing Kansas Skyscape.  Michael is passionate about his subject matter and believes his art is ever evolving like the weather because of this passion.  He invites us to experience the allure of a storm chaser through his paintings. Michael says, “I want to capture that same “wow” factor that I first felt as a child. …and show the awesome power and beauty of Mother Nature.”

He seeks out his inspiration on frequent trips across Kansas capturing the ever changing Midwest weather that he’s combined with the beautiful, scenic Flint Hills.  Occasionally, man made objects such as a winding road, an abandoned house or barn, or an old truck, find their way into his art. 

He has developed a technique which involves rubbing the pastels into the paper creating smooth shapes with less detail rather than building texture through individual strokes. This distinctive illustrative style provides an ethereal sensation, creating a countryside filled with the pleasure of quilted comfort accompanied by a sky filled with an awe inspiring weather event.

Michael was born in Kansas City, Missouri and grew up in Overland Park, Kansas where he still makes his home today.  He’s had a love of the visual arts since he was a young boy.  He received a Bachelor of Fine Arts/Design from the University of Kansas in 1980.  Achieving both Signature and Master Pastelist status in the Mid America Pastel Society, Michael has also been awarded the prestigious Signature Status in the Pastel Society of America.

Works available are being hung this week in the gallery and the opening for the exhibit titled Ethereal Visions of the Flint Hills: a one man show of new works by Michael Duane at SouthWind Gallery will be April 2, 6:00 - 8:30 during the First Friday Art Walk. Exhibit runs April 2 - May 15, 2010.

Preview the Show Online at SouthWindArtGallery.com