A current of the strange runs through Tom Mickle’s work. The area painter has, quite literally, spent his entire life creating art, much of it evocative of things many see only in dreams.
“I come from a family of artists,” Mickle said, “we would take lessons on weekends, and go to art shows out in the country, where people sometimes had to hand their work from branches of trees.”
Although raised by a mother who painted what Mickle describes as “realistic,” he, at some point, moved into another dimension.
The oil paintings Mickle has on display at the State Theatre lobby until the end of the month typify the otherworldly path he has taken with his artwork. The series, called “Head,” consists of a number of painting of human faces. Mickle has utilized deep, rich swirls of azure, crimson, emerald, gold and many other hues to create work not seen at the typical figurative or portrait exhibition.
He said that, throughout his journey as an artist, he came to discover that painting realistically limited him in his endeavor for self-expression.
“I tried not to do photo-realism,” he said, “I use a photograph as a point of departure. Then I add life experiences and pure imagination.”
Mickle studied art at Penn State during the ’80s, then worked in galleries and museums in the DC area. He also continued painting and showed work there. After a dozen years or so, Mickle returned to Centre County, showing at the Art Alliance, the Fraser Street Gallery, Penn State Altoona and Schlow Library.
But the State Theatre exhibit demonstrates what happens when an artist matures and steps into his talent. Mickle has taken bold steps with each canvas.
“The forms are complicated, with weird distortions,” he said. “A nose might look like an ear of corn. Or you might notice a face hidden in another feature.”
The pieces look at faces from strange angles and different perspectives, with alternately elongated or shortened features. But every canvas challenges the viewer to look more closely. A passing glance won’t do for this exhibit.
“I want the viewer to spend a bit of time looking at each one,” Mickle said, “and not just be satisfied with the first impression.”
The rich vibrancy and competence of the angles and curves in these pieces indicate the artist’s competence and years of dedication. Mickle has simply devoted his life to painting.
And he has some ideas for those interested in doing some artwork themselves. He feels that for young artists to simply copy other work won’t really allow them to develop.
“Keep painting and expanding your own vision,” he said. “Work toward your own unique style and imagery.”
Mickle also stresses intensity, both in his style and approach to art.
“Make time every day to work on your painting, no matter what,” he said. “It will make you work faster and get more done.”
The State Theatre exhibit has no charge. Anyone can walk in to simply look at the paintings, as long as they give them more than a passing glance.
