Everyone knows that Artists think differently than most. How differently? You’d be surprised…
The Art Menu’s mission is to give local artists a platform, not just to promote their work, but also to share the sincere point of view behind what drives them to create. This interview begins the first of an ongoing series with our talented roster of Artists explaining their craft, the creative process and their artistic credo.
Michael Longhofer is our featured Artist of the Month for March. Here is his story…
TAM: Where is your hometown?
Michael: Amarillo, Texas
TAM: How long have you lived in the Dallas area?
Michael: 10 years
TAM: When did you discover your creative talents?
Michael: I started drawing as a young lad.
TAM: How long have you been making art?
Michael: On and off in the beginning, but my whole life
TAM: Where did you train?
Michael: Laguna College of Art and Design, BFA
TAM: What would you call your style?
Michael: Hyper-Realism
TAM: How long have you been showing your work professionally?
Michael: Since 1994
TAM: What other jobs have you had?
Michael: USMC, Art Director, Fine dining server, Wine sales
TAM: What’s your favorite part of being an Artist?
Michael: Starting with nothing and ending up with something
TAM: And you’re least favorite?
Michael: $$$
TAM: Have you been inspired/influenced by any artist or artists or movement in particular?
Michael: I like photo-realism / Chuck Close; pop art / Wayne Thiebaud; and impressionism / Monet.
TAM: How long does it take to complete a work of art?
Michael: 2 weeks (depends on detail, size & medium used of course)
TAM: How do you know when a painting is finished?
Michael: I’m very organized with my painting process. So, when that process is done.
TAM: How has your artistic practice changed over time?
Michael: It’s more efficient, and my color mixing has improved. But my eyes are shot.
“Nawleons”
TAM: What memorable responses have you had to your work?
Michael: A fireman cried when he received a painting for his retirement.
TAM: What food, drink, song inspires you?
Michael: Christian music. Just sodas, no food
TAM: What makes you angry?
Michael: Frustration, dishonesty, and favoritism
TAM: What research do you do?
Michael: I research every project depending on what the client wants. If it’s my art, I play around with trying to come up with something edgy and cool.
TAM: What is your dream project?
Michael: A mural on a skyscraper, with an unlimited budget, and I choose the subject matter.
TAM: What is your favorite or most inspirational place?
Michael: New York
TAM: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Michael: If you have a gut feeling not to deal with someone…Don’t do it, no matter how big the piece of cheese is.
TAM: What is an artistic outlook on life?
Michael: There are lots of users and abusers out there in the art world. So, I watch my back, and try to keep making quality art, that will stand the test of time.
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