| The subtle nuance, attention to detail and a romantic imagination creates the magic that comes together in Michael Breyette's work. I am delighted to display a few of his many pieces here. You can see the entire collection at www.studio1088.com, Michael's well-designed website. Images Copyright 2006 Michael Breyette/www.studio1088.com used by permission by www.martinbrant.com |
| Natural Wonder |
| Red, Wet and Blue |
| Jock Noir |
| Sweat |
| Soak |
| Then Morning Comes |
| Waking |
| Profile Someone once said to me, “You’re really talented, but why THAT subject matter? Have you ever tried something else like landscapes?” Well I do love landscapes, the way they can draw you into their world. I sometimes wish I had the passion to draw them but alas that is just not me. Being a gay man, there are obvious reasons I draw what I do. I don’t know where the line between my inspiration from sexuality and from beauty lies. I know that my art is not all about sex. As much as I may find a sunset, waterfall or glass skyscraper beautiful I find that same kind of beauty in a shirtless hunk as well. Perhaps growing up in an atmosphere where it would have been detrimental to me to get caught ogling a hot guy is why I am so drawn to capturing that taboo eye candy on paper. *** Michael Breyette is a self-taught artist, having received no formal art education. Like many other artists, he doesn't recall when he began drawing; it’s just always been there. Having started at a young age, he soon realized he had an aptitude for it. Born in rural upstate NY, his earliest works were greatly influenced by the world in which he lived. As he grew older, because of his conservative environment, he often felt the need to include female subjects in his artwork, despite his desire to focus his efforts on the male nude form. One of Michael's earliest positive experiences as an artist came when he was in his early twenties, working at an art supply store. Here Michael was able to display some of his pieces, which created interest in his work and even earned him some commissions. In addition, he found a close friend in a co-worker, with whom he was able to confide about being gay. The acceptance he received from her was something he had never experienced from any of his family. Despite the success Michael had from the commissioned portraits he got through referrals, he quickly grew dissatisfied simply painting what others wanted him to paint. He wanted to express himself by painting what appealed to him; namely, nude men. Frustrated, Michael all but gave up his artwork. For the next few years he would rarely pick up an art brush or a stick of pastel. Realizing that if he was going to grow personally and artistically he needed to change his surroundings No longer living in an environment that stifled his creativity, he was finally able to express himself as he had always wanted: drawing the nude male body as well as ‘gay themed’ pieces that reflected his ideals and views socially and even politically. Now Michael doesn't have to hide who he is and what he is passionate about. Eventually Michael discovered the impact and exposure provided by the Internet. By creating a personal website, he was able to show his artwork to the world. Soon he was receiving compliments on his style and technique. In 2000, with much success, he started selling his originals via the web followed two years later with fine art prints. His works have been featured in international magazines and on book covers. Michael now lives in Worcester Massachusetts, where he has sustained himself with his art since December of 2003. He enjoys the support not only of his close friends, but also of the countless fans who have written to share their love of his work. |
| ART |
| The Male Form Page Six |