About Mike Henry
Mike Henry - Watercolor Artist
I am a water media painter working primarily in watercolor who loves the way light hits the landscape. Living in the thumb of Michigan has given me many opportunities to paint land as well as water with its sparkling light and reflections. As a rural UPS driver, I was immersed in this landscape.
Mike's Journey to Watercolor
My painting journey started at the age of 43 as a hobby to relieve some stress from a very busy life. This hobby quickly turned into a passion, and I found myself devouring books and DVDs on painting, taking private lessons, and attending workshops. The more I painted, the more I noticed subtle variations of value and color. I would carry a small watercolor set with me and when time permitted, I would stop my truck and capture a quick watercolor impression in my sketchbook.
My desire to paint outdoors and use color in a skillful manner motivated me to find a teacher that has mastered these skills. I was fortunate to attend a Stephen Quiller workshop four years into my painting journey. As a master painter and teacher, Steve fed my passion to create stronger paintings using composition, value, and color to more effectively communicate to viewers of my paintings.
After two workshops with Steve, he asked me to be his assistant for his Creede, Colorado workshops held every summer. That was fourteen years ago, and other than a few horseshoe games that have gone awry, we have become good friends. Having a mentor like Steve Quiller has helped me grow immeasurably as an artist.
Artist Statement
An important purpose in my work is to make the ordinary, extraordinary. I achieve this by painting my compositions with a light that I consider divine.
A favorite quote of mine from Annie Dillard's book, "Pilgrim at Tinker Creek," sums up my condition:
"It is my leisure as well as my work, a game. It is a fierce game I have joined because it is being played anyway, a game of both skill and chance, played against an unseen adversary - the conditions of time - in which the payoff, which may suddenly arrive in a blast of light at any moment, might as well come to me as well as anyone else. I stake the time I'm grateful to have, the energies I'm glad to direct."
Commission a watercolor painting for your home or office.
Search my store for available pieces or commission a piece of art that is perfect for your home. I specialize in tranquil watercolor that is the perfect fit for living rooms and office spaces.
