Michael Doering is a mixed media artist living and working in Reno, Nevada, USA. He creates two dimensional pieces through a variety of mediums, including acrylics, oils, pastels, charcoal, ink, collage, printmaking, construction, and watercolors.
Michael was born in Mason City, Iowa and he graduated from the University of Iowa with a BFA in drawing and printmaking. He then detoured on his artistic journey by moving to Las Vegas, Nevada and ultimately to Reno where he worked in the field of education as a teacher, counselor, principal, and district administrator. He has two Master's Degrees from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in Counseling and Educational Psychology and in Educational Leadership.
After stepping away from his artistic path, he returned again in 2018 and started creating. In this period of time, he has developed an international following for his work and his art has been included in shows across the United States and in France.
In addition to his art, Michael is married and a father of three sons. He has a love of the outdoors and is passionate about music, reading, cooking, and the study of Eastern philosophy. He appreciates all artistic expression, but is most influenced by the Post-Impressionists, Abstract Expressionists, and street artists.
Artist Statement
My approach to making art is best summed up by two quotes from Picasso: "I begin with an idea and then it becomes something else" and "Every act of creation is first an act of destruction."
As an intuitive artist, I am constantly striving for a lack of resistance in my work while keeping planning and preconceived thoughts to a minimum. I approach creating in a spontaneous manner and allow my inner voice to make decisions on color, medium, titles, and marks on the surface. This results in unfiltered pieces, which are honest reflections of my true self.
Tension is a vital element in my art, and it occurs because I am constantly building up and breaking down while I work. I go with my gut and if that means tearing down something I just created, I do it!
I want my art to be accessible to all and it is my hope that it exudes honesty, expression, boldness, and energy. If it doesn't, I am not hitting the mark!
