American, b. Madison, Wisconsin
Lives and works in Minneapolis, Minnesota
mikeweltonart.com

Mike Welton's approach to producing realism is through intense examinations of urban buildings and signage in his photography. The reinterpretation of colors to create higher intensity adds a dynamic and vibrant quality to his work, offering a unique perspective on urban landscapes.

The Four Seasons Hotel and the Condo above it in Minneapolis is a continuation of his Architecture and Twin Cities series of paintings. Exploring newer building towers, especially those that contribute to the evolving cityscape, highlights a commitment to capturing the ever-changing urban environment.

The integration of abstract graffiti into his recent painting series reflects an evolution and shift towards intuitive painting and drawing inspiration from the daily changes of graffiti on boxcars around his art studio in Northeast Minneapolis as well as the 2020 protests where artists came out to express themselves spontaneously suggests an engagement with the urban atmosphere.

Welton's artistic journey, blending realism with abstract elements inspired by urban life, showcases a deep connection to the visual richness of the city. His ability to combine intense observations with intuitive expression contributes to a body of work that captures the essence of urban spaces in a way that is both vivid and evolving.