Bio: Michael received his training at the esteemed Mosaic Art School in Ravenna, Italy under Maestra Luciana Notturni and her colleagues. His artwork has garnered recognition nationally and internationally, including exhibitions at prestigious venues such as the deYoung Museum in San Francisco, the RavennaMosaico 2017 Biennale, and multiple awards at the "Mosaic Arts International" exhibits. A member of the Associazione Internazionale Mosaicisti Contemporanei and the Society of American Mosaic Artists, Michael is based in San Francisco, CA, where he operates his studio. There, he specializes in creating fine art mosaics, reproductions, and commissions for private and commercial clients. His works are held in private collections and architectural installations worldwide.
Artist Statement: "My mosaic works are deeply influenced by my background in professional dance and theatre, infusing them with qualities of light, movement, and energetic visual dynamics. What drives me most is capturing and expressing these elements to create a visceral experience—an energy, a feeling, a mood, or inspiration. I leave 'meaning' to the viewer's interpretation, avoiding dictation.
I have an affinity for antiquity, mythology, and the heroic, often leaning toward figurative renderings. I also enjoy creating artwork that reflects and supports my local and the wider LGBTQ2+ community. Whether abstract or figurative, my art merges ancient techniques with contemporary themes. Dramatic lighting fascinates me; my best works convey movement and drama, aiming to evoke a gasp upon first viewing.
Using natural stone and Italian glass, I employ ancient techniques developed in Italy during the Byzantine period. These materials and methods impart my subjects a timeless strength, importance, and elevation.
Art is my life's work—a passion approached with dedication and responsibility. I constantly challenge myself to push the boundaries of imagery and embrace diverse styles that intrigue me. Versatility is key; I explore new ideas while mastering traditional methods that underpin my practice. My works grace private collections and architectural spaces globally."
Current and Past shows/exhibits/awards
“Trittico del Pacifico”
Winner of Technical Achievement Award
Mosaic Arts International
2021
deYoung Open
deYoung Museum-San Francisco
October 10, 2020 -January 3,
2021
"Embodied"
Society of American Mosaic Artists Invitational Exhibit
Vanderbilt Fine Arts Gallery-Nashville
March 13-May 25, 2019
RavennaMosaico-2017 Mosaic Biennale
"Opere del Mondo"-Chiostri Francescani
Ravenna, Italia
October 7-November 26, 2017
Venice Residency/Exhibit: Valorizzazioni Culturali
Archivi della Misericordia, Venezia, Italia
June1-17, 2017
Mosaic Arts International 2016
Women’s Museum of California, San Diego, CA
April 1-May 29, 2016
Mosaic Arts International 2015
2015 Juror’s Choice Award”
Painted Bride Art Center, Philadelphia, PA
March 12-April 25, 2015
"Still Beating"
2015 Hearts in San Francisco Series
Large-Scale Sculptural Mosaic Heart Commission for San Francisco General Hospital
2015
"Interplay: Texture & Luminosity"
Harrington Gallery
Pleasanton, CA
Nov. 7 - Dec. 13, 2014
Institute of Mosaic Art
Solo Exhibit
Berkeley, CA
Sept-Nov. 2013
Director’s Choice Award
for “Sylvester”
Infinity Art Gallery
Figurative Expo 2011
“Heroes with Bling”
Market Street Gallery
June 2011
“Mosaic Arts International 2011”
“Memberʼs Choice Award” Mexican American Cultural Center Austin, TX February
April 2011
“Mosaic Arts International 2010”
“Jurorʼs Choice Award” : Oliver Budd The Smith Museum of Stained Glass; Chicagoʼs Navy Pier March thru
October 2010
“Modern Days : Ancient Ways”
Solo Exhibit Sweet Inspiration San Francisco, CA
2010
“Tesserae; The Art of Mosaics”
Exhibit @ 2nd City Council Gallery Long Beach, CA
2009
San Francisco Convention and Visitorʼs Bureau Exhibition
San Francisco, CA
2009