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Michael Carlos III is a native of El Paso, Texas. His colored pencil artwork has been exhibited in Houston and New Mexico, as well as local venues.
I have drawn all my life. As a young child, my dad would take me to a used paperback book store, around the corner from our house. I would usually come back home with a handfull of books, chosen wholly by there covers. Old detective sci-fi and horror novels were my favorit. It would always amaze me the way the illustrators were able to capture the essence of a book, with just one image! I knew at that early age, that I wanted to be just like them. They were my heroes, as well as my teachers. My senior year of high school I took a commercial art class, where I learned how to silkscrean, and use an airbrush ( trades I would use periodically after graduation, to make some money ).
In my late 20s I discovered an art book that showed me how to draw with colored pencils, and a technique of blending that I use to this day. A few years later a friend of mine would convince me to take some of my artwork to an acquaintance of his that worked at a art museum. I knew my art didn't fit the conservative Southwest style of El Paso, so it came as a surprise when the museum lady genuinely liked my work! With her help and guidance I entered my first art exhibit. A few more years later, and here I am today.
I've often heard said that artists create from their hearts or souls. While this is true, I'd like to think of my artwork as coming primarily from my head -- or, imagination -- to be more accurate. The downside to my approach is speed, or lack of it. It may take me anywhere from a few days to a few years (of running an idea through my head) before I know it's ready to be transferred on to paper. The upside (I hope) is originality and diversity.
