DAS:BAM - David and Angie Sacks Benefit Art Market

Recently I was asked to participate in an art event to benefit David Sacks, a 42-year old Philadelphia based photographer who is battling cancer. Keep in mind, David is an artist who I never met, and at that point we were complete strangers both personally and professionally speaking, but after hearing his story I immediately realized what was happening to David and his family could easily happen to any one of us - at any given time.

"Tangled Moment"

© 2010 by Mike Hale

Acrylic on Wood Panel

Diptych: 24" x 24" ea.

DAS:BAM (David and Angie Sacks:Benefit Art Market) took place October 5, 2012 in Philadelphia, PA. This extraordinary undertaking was curated by Luella Tripp of LG Tripp Gallery and artist Jay Walker. Nearly 500 people came out to support the Sacks family.

The response - Incredible! The artwork - Extraordinary! The sponsors and volunteers - Unbelievable! The energy - Off the charts!

I truly believe that good things and good people can make a difference. To top it off, I was ecstatic to find my painting "Tank" sold, along with many other incredible works of art.

"Tank" 
© 2007 by Mike Hale

Acrylic on Canvas

48" x 73"
*SOLD*

Miraculously the goal of $100,000 has nearly been met through generous sales and giving. Extraordinary artwork will remain available for purchase as well as the opportunity to give to the Sacks family. Click on this link dasbam.com to read Davis Sacks' story, view his photography and shop the artwork generously donated. If you happen to be in Philadelphia, stop by 1616 Walnut St. to enjoy the art first-hand. Also, read the wonderful article in USA Today. My appreciation goes out to the people who created this event and worked very hard to make it possible.

*My prayers go out to David and Angie Sacks and their family - may they find love, strength, hope and comfort through this challenging journey.*

Art of the State: Pennsylvania 2012

I am honored to announce "Origin" has been selected for exhibition at "Art of the State: Pennsylvania 2012" hosted in The State Museum of Pennsylvania.

"Origin"

© 2010 by Mike Hale

Acrylic & Sand on Canvas

8' x 4' x 3"

The 45th annual exhibit showcases the talents of Pennsylvania artists and includes works by 115 artists from 30 Pennsylvania counties. Astonishingly, there were 1,836 entries received from 680 artists which means only 6% of the work was selected!

The show opens to the public on June 17, 2012 and runs through September 9, 2012.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania is located adjacent to the State Capitol in Harrisburg and offers not only this wonderful exhibition but expansive permanent collections of our state's heritage. 

Please visit this link for more information and museum hours:  http://www.statemuseumpa.org/museum.html

"The Last One"

I am proud to announce my painting, "The Last One", has been selected to exhibit in the Philadelphia/Tri State Artists Equity Association 63rd Anniversary Members' Juried Exhibition.

 "The Last One"

© 2011 by Mike Hale

Acrylic & Gold Leaf on Wood Panel

48" x 32" x 3"

Acclaimed Philadelphia founder and gallery owner, Sande Webster of Sande Webster Gallery tackled the overwhelming process of selecting the art for this show.  For over 42 years Sande Webster has remained committed to the arts, gaining worldwide respect as a pioneer exhibiting artists because of their talents, not race, and bringing diversity to the art world.

Until all was said and done, only 52 pieces were chosen out of the 250 pieces submitted.  It is an amazing collection of work and an impressive show.  If you are in the area, stop by the E.O. Bull Center for the Arts at West Chester University, West Chester PA.  The show will be on exhibit through April 24, 2012.

There is still time!

If you haven't had a chance to visit my show at LGTripp Gallery there is still time!  The work will be on exhibit through February 25, 2012 so stop by and enjoy this event.

"Then" - © 2012 by Mike Hale
95" x 19"
Acrylic on Wood Panel

The response has been phenomenal and I am very thankful for the support. A great deal of time and energy goes into putting a show like this together, but it is You who make all the difference.

"Moment" - © 2012 by Mike Hale
96" x 28"
Acrylic on Wood Panel

It is You, who come and share in the excitement.

"Impulse" - © 2012 by Mike Hale
95" x 19"
Acrylic on Wood Panel

It is You who stop to observe, ask questions, and express your thoughts.

"Aurora" - © 2012 by Mike Hale

96" x 28"

Acrylic on Wood Panel

It is You who become the final piece that completes the show.

"Parallel" - © 2012 by Mike Hale

96" x 28"

Acrylic on Wood Panel

...and that is why I want to say - "Thank You!"

 LGTripp Gallery

47 N. 2nd St.

Philadelphia, PA 19106

Gallery Hours:

Tuesday by Appointment

Wednesday, 12 - 5 pm

Thursday - Saturday, 11 - 6 pm 

Come see the "Aurora" Borealis at LGTripp Gallery

"Aurora" - © 2012 by Mike Hale
96" x 28"
Acrylic on Wood Panel

If you have seen the aurora borealis you will agree the color is magnificent.  If you have yet to share in the phenomena, stop by LGTripp Gallery and enjoy the experience.

"Aurora" - © 2012 by Mike Hale - Detail 

Primarily a show of black and white paintings - "Aurora" boasts 8 feet of spectacular color!

The exhibit features an exciting new series of work based upon pushing boundaries, altering techniques and inventing new forms of application.

...through February 25, 2012.

 LGTripp Gallery

47 N. 2nd St.

Philadelphia, PA 19106

Gallery Hours:

Tuesday by Appointment

Wednesday, 12 - 5 pm

Thursday - Saturday, 11 - 6 pm

New Work at LGTripp Gallery

 

"Child" - © 2012 by Mike Hale

My exhibition at LGTripp Gallery in Philadelphia, PA is underway. This show features new work, some very large...8 feet, and some very small...4 inches. The exhibit runs from from February 3 - 25, 2012. If you happen to be in Philadelphia please stop by.

LGTripp Gallery

47 N. 2nd St.

Philadelphia, PA 19106


Tuesday by Appointment

Wednesday, 12 - 5 pm

Thursday - Saturday, 11 - 6 pm

Be Original - Buy Original

With dozens of catalogs and e-blasts filling our mailbox and inbox everyday it's easy to get caught up in the "what's hot now" web of style. Sadly enough, today's trends quickly turn into yesterday's has been's and soon end up as dusty inhabitants living in our attics, closets and garages.

Each and everyone one of us is uniquely different and we have our own styles. We express ourselves, through clothing, cars, pets, music...the list is endless. The same goes for our homes. They are extensions of our self expression. So why be like everyone else when it comes to the way we decorate? Why hang the same print that thousands of others have hanging on their walls?  Be original, get creative, and purchase a one-of-a-kind work of art. You don't have to spend a lot of money, or travel to a big city, original art and artists can be found in virtually every neighborhood, at every social gathering, and with the help of the internet the possibilities are endless! Next time you are in the market for something new and different, be the talk of town...

BE ORIGINAL - BUY ORIGINAL!

© Some for You, More for Me

2009

Acrylic on Canvas

4" x 4"

$35

© Moment of Time
2007
Acrylic on Canvas
12" x 12" 
$250

© Invisible
*SOLD* 

 

Abstract Paintings for Corporate Spaces

Mike Hale and Co. is back to blogging! It's been a busy couple of months, with commissions coming in and more prospects on the horizon, so we want to keep everyone in touch with what's happening in the studio. 

Everyone knows how vast and vacant corporate interiors can be. Office space with stark, blank hallways tend to feel cold, unfinished and uninviting.

Fortunately, Mike Hale has just the solution...original artwork!

 ©2010 By Mike Hale

This 2 panel, 48" x 48" acrylic and mixed media painting does just the trick by brightening up this office space located in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania!

 ©2010 By Mike Hale

Because art can be very subjective and sometimes challenging to pin down, Mike Hale first presents customers with smaller versions of paintings to help with the decision making process.

©2010 By Mike Hale

With rave reviews, the painting successfully transformed the corporate interior into an inviting, warm and interesting area.  Although the photographs do not show the entire office environment, the soft colors, textures and movement of this piece compliment the designer's choice of carpet, furniture and wall colors.

Mike Hale works extraordinarily well within all budgets, both corporate and residential. He has produced pieces as small as 4" x 4" and as large as 8' x 8'. He is open to commissioned work as well as "go wild and have fun" paintings. So, if you have just the space or are looking for that unique and creative gift, give us a shout!

BE ORIGINAL - BUY ORIGINAL!

Santa's Little Helper

We thought it was time to lighten things up a bit and post one of Mike Hale's sillier costumes. Today's Hale-oween ensemble is titled "Naughty Elf". You see, Santa's little helper has had enough of wooden toy making and is ready to do some celebrating...elf style.

Costume created by Mike Hale

The costume rests on Mike Hale's shoulders allowing him to operate the puppet-like arms ( and other unmentionable parts) from under the snow bank.

Costume created by Mike Hale 

Constructed from a cardboard box, the gingerbread cottage is adorned with faux gumdrops, candy canes, ornaments and twinkle lights.

 Costume created by Mike Hale

We're not talking Bozo the Clown!

We're talking..."Killer Klowns from Outer Space!"  A 1988 b-rated, comedy/horror film featuring clown-faced aliens who arrive on Earth via a "Big Top" spaceship.  Their goal...to harvest people for food by shooting them with popcorn guns and cocooning them inside cotton candy!

Costume by Mike Hale

Today's Hale-oween costume is definitely one of Mike Hale's scariest! Inspired by this cult film his creation started out with canvas, latex, acrylics and a vivid imagination.

Costume by Mike Hale

The eyes illuminate and move manually. As for the teeth, they are carved out of wood and the jaw moves up and down creating a very frightening effect! (Be sure to click on each photo for an enlarged image.)

Costume by Mike Hale

Dressed from hat to clown shoe, the costume measures at least 8 feet tall. Mike Hale's field of vision is actually through the mouth...between chomping of the blood stained teeth.

"Get your souvenirs!"

"Popcorn...cotton candy here!"

Hale-oween

Happy Halloween! This week I am posting a few of the costumes Mike Hale has created over the years. The characters are entirely handmade from various materials such as nylons, stuffing, cardboard, dime store toys and miscellaneous parts that are drilled, sawed, sewn, sanded and molded into works of art.

This costume was inspired by Director David Lynch's unforgettable film The Elephant Man, starring John Hurt, Anthony Hopkins and Anne Bancroft.

Costume - Mike Hale

Photo - John White

The film is based on the story of Joseph Merrick (called John Merrick in the movie), a severely deformed man living in London during the 19th Century. His discovery in a freak show by Dr. Frederick Treves unfolds an emotional story about humans, humanity and hope.

Costume - Mike Hale

Photo - John White

The Elephant Man's haunting black and white cinematography, led Mike Hale to incorporate fellow IUP student John White in photographing his incredible creation.

Costume - Mike Hale

Photo - John White

Part of Mike Hale's creative journey is going into character, playing the part, becoming who he is, The Elephant Man.

Costume - Mike Hale

Photo - John White

Commissioned Corporate Paintings

Mike Hale has produced his fair share of corporate pieces but this one takes the cake!  The call came in Thursday afternoon that the painting was a "go", with one catch...it had to be completed by the following Wednesday morning! In short, that's 5 1/2 days to build (3) 30" x 30" panels, create the actual painting, varnish it, prep it for hanging, and make a delivery! With little sleep and lots of caffeine, the painting was signed, sealed and delivered on time...which made for one happy client!

©2009 By Mike Hale

Artwork truly does makes all the difference. It breathes life, color, movement and warmth into any space, be it corporate or residential. It can be very big...or it can be very small, but more importantly is the way it "speaks" to the viewer. Do you have a favorite piece?

Get out your lederhosen!

It's October and that can only mean one thing...OKTOBERFEST!

Eat, Drink and BEER Merry!!!

 
Early photo of Mike Hale enjoying an Oktoberfest celebration.
(compliments of an artistic hand and Photoshop)

MS 150 City to Shore ~ October 3 & 4, 2009

This weekend the 29th Annual MS 150 City to Shore bike ride takes place!  We want to give a shout out to team MARK'S TSUNAMI RIDERS, especially BETTY STEWART and LORRIE ROBERTS! You have touched our hearts! This devastating disease has brought us together and because of your time, support, strength and dedication we are going to find a cure for MS!

Please take a moment to watch Betty Stewart on CBS 3, click here... Betty's interview on CBS 3.

MS Bike Ride participants are given the opportunity to become Pedal Partners and then connected with an individual affected by MS. Mike Hale is honored to have Lorrie Roberts as his Pedal Partner, and every year he customizes her bandanna with a painting. At this year's "Meet the Riders" party, Lorrie displayed her framed bandannas from previous years and with a round of applause proudly unveiled this year's work of art!

©2009 By Mike Hale 

 

©2009 By Mike Hale  

 

©2008 By Mike Hale  

 

©2008 By Mike Hale 

Again, to find out more about MARK'S TSUNAMI RIDERS and make a donation please click here... Mark's Tsunami Riders.

THANK YOU!

To everyone who shares in this fight!

Words alone cannot express our sincere gratitude!

Welcome home Honeymooners!

Recently we celebrated the marriage of two incredible people! As we all know, weddings are a special event, but the time and energy it takes to pull it all together is staggering! So when the bride asked Mike Hale to create a painting especially for the groom, he couldn't pass up the "request of honor". It seems the groom has a passion for Ferrari's, but a car wasn't covered in the wedding budget. A-ha! Why not improvise? A painting of a Ferrari...Mike Hale style! After tracking down the official red paint, Mike Hale went to work incorporating an iridescent Ferrari logo (left side) that visibly changes colors from different viewing directions, and imitated a speeding Ferrari using the official paint!

 

"John"

©2009 by Mike Hale

Being that marriage is a union of two people, we decided to surprise them both with a second painting representing the bride! Marci's love for Fleur-de-lis was a must on her painting. Like John's, this too was painted in iridescence to add a watermark effect and create visual interest from different angles.

Because Marci and John both share a passion for nature, the two paintings were united together using a single motif. Leaf images (collected from Aunt Nette and Uncle Terry's house) were embossed into foil and placed across the top of both paintings.

Marci 
©2009 by Mike Hale

Like the wedding bands that now bond them as husband and wife, the paintings represent a coming together of two individuals. Here's to you Marci and John! Here's to a lifetime of love, health and happiness!
 

 

©2009 by Mike Hale

And the Crowd Roars!!!!

The finish line is in sight. Hearts racing we round the corner...almost there. Summer's clock is ticking down, Autumn is almost here!  5, 4, 3, 2, 1...and the crowd roars! A mere second to spare but our summer project is officially complete!

The new addition to the "veranda"...a water fountain!  Completely designed and created by Mike Hale. (I did get to help with the base coat of stucco.)  What a perfect way to end a fun-filled summer and usher in the autumn season!

So...did anyone guess correctly?

If you haven't had a chance to view the fountain in progress, please check out our 2 previous posts. It's hard to imagine that a few quick sketches...

...can evolve into this!

 

5:18 pm and Autumn has officially arrived here in Pennsylvania. We are headed outside to welcome the new season and enjoy the evening by our new fountain. Cheers!

Stumped? Here's a Hint from Mike Hale & Co.

For those of you who are stumped by the photos of our summer project, here's a hint...

It's 4' x 6' and makes a relaxing sound!