M i c h a e l D u a n e
Michael Duane was born in Kansas City, Missouri and grew up in Overland Park, Kansas
where he makes his home today. He's had a love of the visual arts since he was a young
boy. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts/Design from the University of Kansas in 1980.
Over the years, he has created many kinds of art, from caricatures in pen and ink to
landscapes in watercolor and acrylic. Several years ago he took up pastels exclusively,
impressed by the bold, pure colors and the immediacy of the medium. Now working with
pastels, he 's found his niche by combining his love of art with a lifelong fascination with the
weather which began when he saw his first of several tornado's at age seven. In a
distinctive illustrative style, he paints subject matter as diverse as an oncoming thunderstorm
or a simple far-off cloud, intensifying the scene by using sharp contrast between colors and
between styles. Frequent trips out into Kansas provide a wealth of the incredible Midwest
weather that he combines with the beautiful scenic Flint Hills. Occasionally, man made
objects such as a winding road, an abandoned home, or barn stand against a threatening
storm. While Kansas remains the main inspiration for his art, Michael is expanding his
scope by exploring other areas as well. Michael is a signature member and vice president of
the Mid America Pastel Society.