Michael Preston Artist Page


© 2024 Michael Preston

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Michael Preston was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree, with an emphasis on oil painting from Penn State University in 1994. Before moving to Richmond in the year 2000 he worked as a graphic artist in San Francisco, California, and as an illustrator in San Diego. It was in San Diego that Michael faced the challenge of creating traditional artwork in a small office environment, and in doing so made the transition from oil paint to oil pastels while still maintaining a rich painterly quality.

The distinguishing characteristics of his work are strong lines, bold colors, and a sense of motion, which were influenced by artists such as Picasso, Degas, Monet, and Cézanne. The introspective compositions depicted in his works capture moments that invite the viewer to engage and relate to the subject in a moment of reflection.

All original pieces are drawn on acid-free drawing paper with pencil, and brushed in with black oil pastel and turpentine, before oil pastels are applied.


Artist Accomplishments:

Bachelor of Arts Degree (Emphasis Painting and Drawing), The Pennsylvania State University, 1994

Richmond Pottery gallery show, September, 2003

The Crossroads Art Center, juried tenant, March 2004 – Present

Best in Show, The Crossroads Art Center, June All-Media Show 2004

Featured Artist at Cornerstone Architects, Richmond First Friday, September 2004

Juried Vendor, Bon Air Artist Association, Art Affair 2005

Featured Artist at The Visual Art Studio, Richmond First Friday, February & March 2006
Studios of Michael Preston

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