Featured Artist Michael Hartstein

Enjoy the nature-inspired portfolio of artist Michael Hartstein, who shares a journey of creativity and passion. Learn more by visiting his website.

 

 

Art has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My passion for art and design began in grade school, over 60 years ago, and has only grown stronger with time. I was drawn to the power of visual expression and immersed myself in art and architecture classes, eager to learn as much as possible.

 

 

I devoured every art book I could find and developed a deep appreciation for art history. When I looked at the works of the Old Masters, I felt as though they were inviting me into their world, showing me the depth of emotion and meaning captured in their paintings.

 

 

I work out of my studio in Westlake Village, California, and am very fortunate to live on a lake. I’ve gotten a lot of inspiration from the wildlife around the lake.

 

 

Nature has always been an essential source of inspiration for me. My paintings reflect my deep connection to the natural world, capturing its beauty and the emotions it evokes. Over the years, my style has evolved, shifting between Impressionism, Abstract Expressionism, and Abstract. More recently, I have moved toward bold colors and less detail, allowing viewers to use their imaginations and interpret my work in their own way.

 

 

Three years ago, I made the decision to retire from my design career and focus entirely on painting. Now, I dedicate myself to creating art almost every day. My creative process begins with an idea, but I also allow room for spontaneity. Often, the final painting takes on a life of its own, evolving beyond my original vision in surprising and exciting ways.

 

 

This past year, I began participating in art fairs, which have been an incredible opportunity to showcase my work to a larger audience. Engaging with people, hearing their interpretations of my paintings, and receiving direct feedback has been invaluable. These experiences have given me fresh insights and have influenced the direction of my work moving forward.

 

 

Through my art, I hope to inspire an awareness of how nature enriches our lives. My goal is to create paintings that evoke emotion, spark reflection, and invite viewers to connect with the beauty of the world around them. My journey as an artist is ever-evolving, and I look forward to the creative discoveries that lie ahead.

 

Michael Hartstein invites you to follow on Facebook and Instagram.

 

 

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