Michael McGrath, an artist based in Rhinebeck, New York, creates captivating works of art that blend folk-art inspiration with a touch of mystery. His pieces often feature disembodied heads, eyes, and hands alongside spindly trees, dragonflies, and vibrant blossoms. McGrath’s unique visual language incorporates a mix of graphite, ink, and oil and acrylic paints to create dynamic compositions that are both wondrous and puzzling.
Currently, McGrath is gearing up for solo exhibitions in Saugerties, New York, and Kent, Connecticut, later this year, in addition to participating in a few group shows. You can stay updated on his latest work by following him on Instagram.
One of McGrath’s pieces, titled “Intro to ceremonial lighting cycles,” showcases a group of people communing around a bare tree at night. This work, created with colored pencil, wax pastel, and acrylic on panel, measures 14 x 11 inches and exudes a sense of enchantment.
In another painting, “Evening float, Panther Mountain,” McGrath captures a serene scene of a person gazing at a mountain with flowers nearby. This acrylic and oil on canvas piece, measuring 40 x 30 inches, invites viewers to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the natural world.
McGrath’s art often features recurring motifs like eyes, insects, trees, deer, and human figures, as seen in works such as “Roe gods, chain reaction,” “Future systems No. 5,” and “Late migration, No. 3.” These symbols add depth to his visual narratives, inviting viewers to ponder the interconnectedness of the elements within his compositions.
If you’re a fan of art that blends folk-inspired imagery with a sense of wonder and intrigue, Michael McGrath’s work is definitely worth exploring. Keep an eye out for his upcoming exhibitions and immerse yourself in the enigmatic world he creates through his captivating paintings.
