Michael Cherepak

I am compelled to create.

Visually stimulated by my environment, the colorful strokes and luscious forms are the expression of a curious maker. On the surface, the content seems simple. But each image depicts a moment; quiet, loud, simple, or complex. Making is for me an affirmational practice focused on expressing joy, play, and love. This is a point of view I hold tightly. Not on media or politics, but on the things I can touch. People I can touch. A view that is caring and diligent.

The screen printing process suits my personality in that it is process that provides a structure and limits. Change and spontaneity have a place but the need to manage size, color and production helps guide conclusions. Learning the skills of screen printing has provided a process to feel confident about. With floral imagery as the starting point each piece starts as a loose organization of abstract elements eventually tied together into interlocking colors.

The narrative is a subtle social statement.
The work is an expression of love for being human. Searching. Trying. Reflecting. Making.
The paper pieces become objects of tenderness and a meditative expression of my passion for every day moments.
When it’s working, the result is engaging images.
The world is still a place of wonder.