Mike Burns

November 2008 Artist of the Month

I studied painting at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago, and in 1996 I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. I have exhibited in Chicago, throughout the suburbs, Texas and California.

For me, abstract art offers freedom and a vast range of possibilities. In my work, I start with a vague idea (a layering effect, a form, a texture, a color, a composition, etc.), or I will start painting and let the work develop during the process. As a painting takes shape, often I will make sketches to aid in the direction. At the core of my work is my admiration for color and the versatility of paint.

Some of my influences are Joseph Turner, Puvis De Chavannes, Picasso, Matisse, Kandinsky, Paul Klee, Hans Hoffman, Robert Rauschenberg, Jackson Pollock, Sigmar Polk, Jim Nutt, Ray Yosida, Robert Williams, Thomas Nozakowski, Mies Van Der Rohe, Frank Gerhy, Ray and Charles Eames, Herman Miller, Craig Stecyk, Daniel Clowes, David Lynch, Sophia Coppola and Wes Anderson.

The Artist of the Month is on exhibit for the entire month at the St. Charles Public Library on the Mezzanine level. For further information: call Mary Cella at 630-584-0076, extension 248.