Bio
Defined as a 21st century artist by the nature of his work, Mike Dreeland — also known as M.Dreeland — introduces a pop art style that mixes basic acrylics and techniques from the old masters with hi-tech tools of the present and future.
Modern technology, with the use of graphic design programs, has allowed M.Dreeland to spotlight a unique step and repeat style by using multiple layers and common objects. His use of thick paint and bold colors characterizes M.Dreeland’s style. Despite a recognizable bold texture, abundant use of color and multiple layers of paint, what remains is a basic shape, a seemingly familiar object. Working to throw computer programs into the common paint/brush mix and adding in his artistic flair, M.Dreeland establishes a unique combination that adapts to a variety of media faster, quicker and tighter. Eager to share what he enjoys most about his work M.Dreeland has said, “Being precise and exactly up to the edge is not enjoyable — those little nicks, smudges, and blobs of paint over clean lines make this work limitless.”
And what is it that he features in his art? Common, easily identifiable objects and themes that people can relate to yet masked with diverse colors and presented in varying light. The Mug Collection, for example, focusing on the common cup image, attracted the City of Philadelphia so much that they commissioned an M.Dreeland pop art installation for its Mann Performing Arts Center. His success with that project rested in the medium he chose to feature, The Liberty Bell, a Philadelphia icon, and it’s juxtaposition in his signature unfettered style. An object highly indicative of Philadelphia’s rich history and culture, entitled “Liberty.”
Dedicated to helping others, in 2004 M.Dreeland encouraged the preservation of art in schools through his support of Art For Change by donating his time and creative talents to this vital organization that helps raise money for underprivileged New York City children to buy art supplies. As an established New York City artist, M.Dreeland was nominated to be the Creative Director on the board of the Share Our Strength Foundation in 2006. That recognition came from his personal support of this organization that raises funds to feed the hungry in New York. He has donated artwork continually to the Share Our Strength Foundation’s New York City events including the Taste of New York for which he has sat on the event committee. To continue his philanthropic commitment, M.Dreeland created a custom work for the American Heart Association entitled “Pop HeART” that was donated for charity auction at their 2008 gala at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. In 2009, M.Dreeland donated artwork to the country’s premiere culinary event — Taste of the Nation — to help raise money to end childhood hunger in America.
M. Dreeland was the featured artist at the Time Warner Center in New York City showcasing 25 pieces on the second and fifth floors in both December 2009 and returning to the center again in April 2010. Following these successful shows, M.Dreeland collaborated with NYC custom sneaker retailer Sole Food in Tribeca to create a one-of-a-kind M.Dreeland sneaker. The hand painted shoes were showcased at a launch party in August 2010 at the Rivington Hotel Penthouse in NYC.
From Dec 1-4th of 2010, M.Dreeland was at the prestigious Art Basel in Miami. His work was featured at the Red Dot Art Fair with the Artisan Direct Ltd. Gallery. Currently, M.Dreeland pieces are on display at the Dené Gallery in Geneva , Illinois outside Chicago.
For inquires and sales information regarding any of M.Dreeland’s work, please contact contact@mdreeland.com |
