Michael Banks Florals

Folk artist Michael Banks is a major talent. He also has a compelling personal story which informs his art: a life spent battling poverty, depression and other demons.

While he's better known for his figural works, I admire his florals just as much. This painting, "Early Spring", is currently offered at Oliver's Southern Folk Art:



Apparently, Banks uses a tar undercoat in his paintings. I like how it gives his still lifes a palpable intensity. Here's another, "Swingers", from American Folk Art and Framing:



I can't wait to see more from him!