Michael Bhanos

If my work were to be defined into an “ism”, it’d be called Exercism. Exercism, not to be confused with Exorcism as my definition is not biblical, but defined by the release of an emotion through one of humanities most primal and instinctual (re)actions; fighting. Currently (as my style is always evolving) I wrap canvas around a full size punching bag where I then apply (i.e. punching and kicking) acrylic paint by way of dipped hands, elbows, knees and sometimes feet/legs. The “emotion” is determined by color choices and veracity, layers, and imagery. Fighting style can also have an impact. I find beauty and intrigue by creating with a force that’s believed to only destroy and ruin. Where fighting in most cases drives people away, I bring people closer by finding construction in a destructive act. I recently moved to Park City, Utah from New York City where I was living and working for 6 years. My love of the outdoors and open spaces finally got the best of me.