Mike Haubenstock

Fire and Ice

12 x 12 x .75", framed to 18 x 18"

Oil on Linen

$425

Crimson azalea blossoms flare against cool white lilacs, their textures laid on thick with palette-knife strokes. The painting revels in contrast—heat and chill, weight and air—turning a simple bouquet into a study of color’s drama and the tactile pleasure of paint.

Artist's Statement:

I strive to captivate viewers with oil paintings of landscapes and still lifes using architecture, natural scenery, and vibrant displays. I work in a representational style, aiming to combine an interplay of color, depth, and intrigue. Each painting is intended to inspire, sustain interest, and sometimes to whet the appetite. Displaying an array of subjects and sizes, my still lifes play with colorful fruits and vegetables. Lately I have been using the palette knife to create an added layer of texture and depth. My intention is to maintain a representational quality while showcasing visible brush strokes and diverse edges, resulting in paintings that transcend mere photographs, exuding a distinct painterly essence. In my landscapes I use both brushwork and palette knife, with subjects ranging from fall woodland scenes to plein air paintings of nature. I am a member of Oil Painters of America, the James River Art League, and the Metropolitan Richmond Artist Association. I have a permanent exhibit at Crossroads Art Center.