Gometic Exploration

Michael's geometric paintings explore the intersection of optical illusion, meditation, and visual perception. Inspired by his experiences with extended gaze practices during Buddhist meditation sessions in Berkeley, these works delve into how our eyes and brain process visual information over time. Using simple mapped-out patterns and long brush strokes, Michael creates repeated lines that evolve and shift as the viewer engages with the piece, encouraging a deeper, more prolonged interaction with the art.

The artist's unique approach stems from his observation that our peripheral vision expands and contracts during extended periods of focused gazing. This phenomenon serves as the foundation for a body of work that deliberately plays with optical illusions and the occurrence of retinal burns. Through a careful balance of repeated patterns, color softness, and visual vibration, Michael's paintings invite viewers to experience the gradual abstraction of color and light, challenging traditional notions of static visual art.

By incorporating elements of Buddhist meditation practices into his artistic process, Michael creates a bridge between the spiritual and the visual. His geometric paintings serve not only as aesthetic objects but also as tools for introspection and perceptual exploration. As viewers engage with these works for extended periods, they may find themselves drawn into a meditative state, where the boundaries between the painting and their visual experience begin to blur, offering a unique and deeply personal journey through the realm of optical abstraction.