Michael Prettyman: A Confluence of Art and Spirituality
Art and spirituality have always shared a profound connection, and few embody this union as seamlessly as Michael Prettyman. A celebrated contemporary artist and scholar of comparative religion, Michael's journey is an inspiring testament to the fusion of artistic expression with spiritual depth.
Michael has shaped an expansive body of work throughout his life, harmoniously merging contemporary representational painting with profound wisdom from various eschatological traditions. With rigorous classical training in drawing, painting, and sculpture from prestigious institutions like The School of Visual Art and the New York Academy of Art, Michael's foundation in art is robust and refined. His artistic pursuits further led him to the Tsering School of Art in Kathmandu, Nepal, where he received advanced instruction in thangka painting.
What truly distinguishes Michael from his contemporaries is his unwavering dedication to the spiritual dimensions of his craft. His explorations in Tibetan Buddhist meditation and thangka painting have taken him to diverse locations such as India, Nepal, and monasteries in the US. His spiritual foundation is further solidified with a master's degree in theology from the Harvard Divinity School.
For Michael, art transcends being just a medium of expression. It is a profound form of meditation, be it through drawing, painting, or sculpture.
Michael's artistic genius has not gone unnoticed. His creations have been showcased worldwide, from New York to Hong Kong and Barcelona to Almaty, Kazakhstan. Some of his most notable exhibits can be found in revered institutions like the American Museum of Natural History, the New York Botanical Gardens, The Bronx Zoo, and St. John’s Church.
In addition to being a prolific artist, Michael Prettyman is also an academic. He currently imparts his wisdom and knowledge at Hunter College in New York City, teaching Religion and the Visual Arts. He's also an esteemed lecturer, enlightening many with his insights on creativity, spiritual practice, mysticism, and the divine.
Michael is continuously pushing the boundaries of art and spirituality. He has teased his audience with tidbits about his upcoming book that delves into creativity and spiritual practice. Furthermore, he's working on an intriguing series of paintings addressing the Anthropocene Sublime, which promises to be as thought-provoking as his previous works.
Michael Prettyman's journey is an exquisite tapestry of inspiration, art, and spirituality. His mastery in seamlessly interweaving classical themes with contemporary flair has solidified his position as a beacon in the world of art. As Michael continues his exploration into the Anthropocene Sublime, enthusiasts and art lovers alike await his next masterpiece with bated breath.
