Michael Bingham is an artist who works in a diverse range of styles and techniques. He is not defined be any one medium, concept or subject. His paintings, drawings and sculptures are often like postcards sent back from distant lands of thought and imagination.
His artistic journey began in 1962, when he was born in Salt Lake City. He was raised in Idaho, the oldest of nine children, and can’t remember a time when his curiosity didn’t compel him to make and create things. The decision to become a full time artist, however, didn’t happen until he attended college at a school now known as BYU Idaho. His journey soon led him to the prestigious Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California where he graduated with honors with a degree in illustration in 1988. Bingham then journeyed on to Hallmark Cards in Kansas City, where he spent 12 years creating imaginative products as part of (what was then) the largest creative staff in the world.
Bingham is eternally grateful the guiding influence of the many gifted teachers, professional artists, gallery owners, artist friends and family who have helped him find his way on his creative journey. He has won numerous awards and has exhibited his work in a wide variety of shows, galleries and museums around the country.
“I have been more than blessed with my share of great art teachers. To name just a few, Leon Parsons, Sergei Bongart, Dan McCaw, Richard Bunkall, Skip Whitcomb, Richard Schmid and Ovanes Berberian. I feel very indebted to these and others for the time they spent helping me learn to paint. I now find great satisfaction in teaching painting classes and helping others develop their talents,” says Michael.
“I use thick oil paints because I really enjoy the texture and brush strokes they give me. I paint things that I think are beautiful. It may be the color, the composition, or perhaps, a moment of dramatic light. I am not exactly sure why I choose one scene over another. But over all, my interest is to create art that helps us feel good. So many things in the world today are unpleasant. I hope my paintings help to calm and bring a smile.”
Bingham is also a teacher. He sees teaching as a way to repay the many who have helped him, by helping others unlock the doors to their own creative potential. He has conducted painting workshops in many states and one in Canada. Recently he has become creatively energized by teaching high school art classes in Cache Valley, Utah. He and his beautiful wife Suzanne have seven amazing children and two adorable grandchildren. Michael especially wishes to thank the many collectors who have made it possible for him to follow his dreams by choosing to make his art a part of their homes and businesses.
