Michael Petow is an artist who engages with the dichotomies of light and dark through layered mixed media compositions that integrate painting, collage, graffiti, sculpture, and digital art. His artistic journey began as a graffiti writer, where he found a form of expression in the clandestine nature of the craft, exploring themes of identity and rebellion within urban landscapes.
In the studio, Michael delves into the cycle of creation and concealment that has shaped his practice. He layers materials and retains fragments of earlier compositions, allowing these remnants to inform and influence new works. This approach reflects his belief in the importance of the past in art. The incorporation of fabric and collage introduces a tactile dimension, inviting viewers to engage with the complexities of identity and the narratives that shape our experiences.
Michael's art embodies an alchemical transformation, with each composition serving as a vessel for personal and collective metamorphosis, illuminating the interplay of light and dark within the human psyche. Through his work, he seeks to reveal the unseen forces that shape existence, encouraging viewers to contemplate their own hidden narratives and the multifaceted nature of being.
Installation, 2025
Mixed media
The Ceremonial Excavation of Strawberry Island
Mixed Media
The Bridge to Ishimoyga
Mixed Media
La Tabla
Mixed Media