Michael Polakowski’s practice rests on the intersection between gallery painting and large-scale murals. He draws heavily on his upbringing in the Midwest in order to create work that reflects the social climate of his home. To date, his body of work juxtaposes the real and unreal to tell stories that are as absurd as they are familiar. Often, his work draws upon his sketchbook practice – diligently observing and documenting his environment with surreal juxtapositions which insinuate that “not everything is quite right here.” His work consists of graphic shapes, textures, bold color, and symbolic iconography. The results are vibrant paintings and murals that are equal parts narrative, decorative and conceptual.
