The current exhibit at the Nancy Thomas Gallery in Yorktown is an experience in color, creativity, and texture. The collection, created by Alabama-born Michael Banks, is a combination of dark, distinctive characters and tongue-in-check wit. A self-taught artist, Banks is currently considered one of the foremost up-and-coming members of the new American folk genre. 

His work has been exhibited in a variety of cities such as Atlanta, Denver, and New York and has also appeared in Better Homes and Gardens as well as Southern Living. To add to his impressive and expanding resume, Banks’s exciting work appeared in a one-man show at the Hurn Museum in Savannah and has pieces in the museum’s permanent collection.

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In keeping with the practice of folk art, Banks’s works are not concerned with the characteristics of “traditional” art and demonstrate his unique creativity. Banks doesn’t sketch anything out before he begins a painting, but says he simply “sees it in his head” and then translates it directly as a finished piece. Using primed plywood, he applies roofing tar - which adds a rustic texture to the boards – before applying the design in his mind. He also uses a variety of tools to incise the pieces which accentuate the images he paints. Bold, bright colors are a cornerstone of his work. His pieces depict large, prominent heads that are adorned with small, far-spaced eyes and mouths and are sometimes surrounded by a variety of common objects. Many of his larger pieces have a three-dimensional addition which adds yet another stirring component to the over-all effects of his paintings.

One of my favorite paintings was “Healing the Blind.” Taking up an entire wall, the piece is filled with Michael’s signature characters. They surround one particular individual that seems to be the focus of the “healing.” A supporter focuses upon this sad character and a beam of light is aimed at his head. It seems to imply that the healing is not about the physical sight of the individual, but perhaps some internal struggle. There’s a feeling of community and support within the painting, though the texture and incised cuts make the scene appear dark and sad. There’s also a three-dimensional, seemingly troubled character placed in the lower right hand corner of the piece. It makes the viewer wonder what his significance is. Is he a representation of the inner struggle that our main character is experiencing or perhaps a loved one tormented by the pain of his comrade? Or is it something that can only be translated in Michael’s mind? It’s a beautiful piece that consolidates Michael’s distinctive techniques and leaves the viewer with an appreciation for his talent.

The Michael Banks collection is a presentation of the artist’s youth, experience, and humor. With unconventional techniques, Michael brings together texture, color, and creativity to create a matchless collection. Michael says of his artwork, “This is all I’ve ever done,” with a zest and obvious passion for his craft that is revealed in his pieces.

Michael Bank’s exhibit will be on display at the Nancy Thomas Gallery in Yorktown until October 19th. Please visit http://nancythomas.com/cart/cover.html for more information on the exhibit.