Michael Cutlip

 First Time Art Party Participant

Red Zone

Artist’s Website

www.michaelcutlip.com

Artist’s Statement

I’ve been making my marks now for over 20 years. It is a lifelong journey for sure, and I am staying the course, fully committed. I can’t think of anything else I would rather be doing.

That said, by no means is it an easy journey. Four years ago, I hit a wall…my first creative block ever. Well, most would say, it was about time! I began to feel like I was making the same thing over and over, the work had become formulated….the kiss of death for any artist.

After a very painful and emotional year, I finally came out on the other side feeling like myself again. I had discovered my obsession with PAPER. The use of paper has opened up so many doors for me. It has taught me to let go of it all and simply enjoy the process. The act of freedom, exploration, and the knowledge to simply listen to the work…each piece has its own voice, if we listen…true, uninhibited art will happen.

The new work definitely has an urban feel…something that has influenced me since the beginning days. I have always appreciated graffiti in its abstract form. I draw from that, and in my older age, I am learning the lesson that less is truly more. Across the board, I have taken a more minimalist approach toward my life.