As an artist I liken myself more to a shaman of ancient tribal times. Or perhaps a magician. 

I say this because of the transcendent quality of all art in general. Art should transport the viewers’ consciousness to a higher plane.  Like the ancient cave painters talking to the gods, an artist sifts through the dreams so others in the tribe can see behind the veil.

I create in many different styles and mediums. I will not pin down a movement or specific technique that defines my work; but as I have matured as a painter, I can say that my work falls into the surrealist style more then others.

I never try to understand what I am creating until it is complete, as the images tend to come to me in a flash already completed in my mind; then I may take several days in contemplation of a piece, waiting for it to speak to me and tell me it’s secrets; or perhaps reveal something about myself. During the creative process I am totally immersed in the NOW. It is when I am truly seeing. 

If I strive for anything in my work , I strive to create an experience for the viewer that is unique or a change in perspective of how they view the mundane that is our reality. If I can inspire a dream or a feeling I have done my job as a Shaman. If I can inspire one to wake up and truly see, I have done my job as an artist.

Michael D. Walker