Check Out Michael Jacques’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Jacques.

Hi Michael, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Growing up as an only child – I spent a lot of time on my own. Drawing was my escape. For whatever reason I never pursued it further until a couple years ago. I was turning 30 and going through an existential crisis so I took a solo trip to Europe for a few weeks and coming back I realized my passion in life was to create. So, I got back into drawing and eventually painting. Over the last couple years, I focused on just trying to develop my unique style and show works at selected fairs and shows. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Nothing worthwhile in life is smooth. The main struggle is the art industry as a whole. It is difficult to navigate as it doesn’t follow a typical supply and demand style industry. With physical works that take hours to make you only ever have a limited amount. While at the same time you need to create demand. So, you are often times stuck with managing this indirect relationship. 

On top of that – you need to figure out your own unique style AND figure out what type of artist you want to be. Someone that reaches the masses or someone that is harder to obtain. These things get figured out along your path but having an idea about them as you get started is important because once you start down one road it’s very difficult to just go down the other. 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a Los Angeles-based artist, I use acrylic paint on canvas to create surreal and figurative works. My paintings explore the interplay between reality and imagination, often featuring distorted figures and dreamlike landscapes. 

My inspiration comes from a variety of sources, including my personal experiences, memories, and dreams. I am fascinated by the human form and the ways in which we express ourselves through movement and gesture. 

I also draw inspiration from the natural world, incorporating organic shapes and textures into my paintings. 

My creative process involves a balance of planning and spontaneity. I begin by sketching out rough ideas and compositions, but I often allow the painting to evolve as I work, responding to the colors and shapes that emerge on the canvas. I am constantly experimenting with new techniques and materials, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. 

Through my artwork, I hope to transport viewers to a realm of possibility and wonder. I want to challenge their perceptions of reality and encourage them to explore the depths of their own imagination. 

What matters most to you? Why?
What matters to me most is making works that help me express myself. This is a coping mechanism used to help me feel alive and have purpose in life. 

By focusing on just expressing how I feel – I hope that the works can be appreciated by others in a similar light. Maybe others can feel a sense of connection when they see the works, or they can understand that they are the only ones who think a certain way. 

Making works that help others feel connected, understood, and not alone. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.michael-jacques.com
• Instagram: @michaeljacquesart