Michael Hermansen

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Local Minneapolis artist MICHAEL HERMANSEN’s hyper-realist work investigates the life of birds and their daily life. Hermansen states: “I have been captivated by the natural world ever since I was a boy growing up in rural Minnesota. Hours would pass by as I closely examined the lives of ants, beetles and frogs. After my military service, I pursued a degree in biology. However, life circumstances would bring me back to my love of art and design, where I continue to express my fascination with the beauty and cleverness of mother nature.

This ongoing series of birds is all about seeing the beauty in the everyday activities of these marvelous creatures: catching dinner, being a mother, contemplating a mate, or simply taking flight. I paint at a large scale to bring my subjects more fully to life. The more common aspects of these birds are transformed into something new and fascinating via this perspective. In these pieces, I aim for a balance between fine detailed work and broad, loose strokes. A variety of techniques are used to create visual interest both near and from across a room, such that these birds take on a realistic look from a distance, but the brush work can be seen and appreciated up close.”—Michael Hermansen