Mike Smith
www.onlineartforsale.com

Mike Smith
Chicago
contemporary

Please view Mike Smith's Images by clicking here.

I have maintained a base and studio in Chicago since 1989. My work has evolved from site-specific installation and its documentation (inspired by Gordon Matta-Clark). The installations evolved quickly into interactive, inclusive-oriented adult playground 'events' and the forming of a group to do this, Environmental Encroachment (EE). This has been my main artistic focus ever since, combining many of my artistic explorations and talents, while demanding skill, knowledge and appreciation of many media and techniques.

EE combines elements of procession, costumery, installation, musical theater and puppetry.

I also take photographs, make collages, and sculpture. When I make art, the subject seems to dictate the medium, which naturally finds its way into the equation of concept and process. A large selection of art from my archives is available through this site.

exhibitions for involvement with Environmental Encroachment can be found at www.encroach.net

Chez Luis Gallery, Chicago, Summer Show, 1996-2002

Beret International Gallery, Chicago - , Group Show, December 1997

Freedom Gallery, Chicago - Postcard Show, January 1998

Exposition Internacional Exhibition of Postal Arts, Havana Cuba, December 1995-February 1996

Gallery 312, Unknown Chicago, June 1995

Language House Gallery, True Colors, Chicago, November 1994

Space Gallery, Space magazine, 1991

1997, 98 Community Arts Assistance Program Grants
Department of Cultural Affairs, City of Chicago

Grants don't often provide for individuals working through a group medium; it is either individual artists strictly or nonprofit groups I fit into a different category of arts, whose duties include group management as well as artistic content, production and performance of a fairly large collective of free-spirited artists. I recently found that working through or with grantees as an independent contractor is preferred.

Director of Chez Luis Gallery, 1995 to present.

Director of onlineartforsale.com

Writer and reviewer for Puppetry Journal Magazine