A solo exhibition in Ascoli Piceno, Italy, October 2013
“It is vital that artists use their creativity, skills and insights to address contemporary political, social and economic issues of global importance, such as climate change and pollution, something Mike Freedman focusses on in his work.”
Professor Chris Wainwright, pro vice chancellor of the University of the Arts, London and Director of the climate change project “Cape Farewell”.
In “Self- Destruct: Man’s Devastation of his Environment” Mike Freedman paints abstractions expressing his awareness that we cannot live much longer ignoring decisive action on the environment. His solo exhibition at the Palazzo Capitani in Ascoli Piceno from October 22nd to 31st is built on his political and social beliefs, his concern for the future of our planet and his observation of global destruction during his travel to over 60 countries.
He is angry that everywhere is evidence of man-made climate change, pollution, resource exploitation and pesticide poisoning mostly in the quest for super profits. This is coupled with inadequate and ineffective political action to stop this planetary devastation. His painting is an expression of his frustration. Freedman, who divides his time between London and Ascoli Piceno, believes strongly in the notion that, as citizens, artists should involve themselves in the communities in which they live.
He uses the abstraction of landscapes as his vehicle, deploying a variety of media (paint, gravel, foil and scorching) and different grounds (canvas, wood, steel and granite) to challenge his audiences to think through the crises with which we are all confronted. His work relates, in particular, to the wildernesses he has witnessed including the Antarctic, jungles, deserts and the tundra. His painting is visceral, bold and vigorous, often executed swiftly yet presenting viewers with a subtlety of image and interpretation that poses as many questions as answers.
Freedman began painting 10 years ago after a successful international business and parallel political career. He recently graduated from the famous Chelsea and Wimbledon Art Schools. He also has degrees from London, Oxford and Saskatchewan Universities. He has exhibited in London, Salisbury, Harrogate and Shaftsbury in the UK and in New York City in the USA. This is his first exhibition in Italy.
Contacts: michaelfreedman1942@gmail.com – www.michaelfreedman.co.uk