Michael Alfano

Michael Alfano has been sculpting figures, monuments, and philosophical pieces for over fifteen years. He first studied at the Art Students League of New Yorkwith an emphasis on life size sculpture and anatomy. His formal education continued at Boston University, and was augmented by internships with several prominent sculptors. He continues his training with master classes, and occassionally teaches sculpture. Michael exhibits his work at galleries and other public venues, and he is a regular entrant in art shows, where he has garnered over 50 awards. His sculptures are found in private collections throughout the world. Monuments and other public art he's created are on permanent display in the United States. Newspapers, magazines, books, and television have featured Michael and his work. "The best art engages, generates discussion, and brings about change. My art compels viewers to experience, think, and understand life more fully." Michael Alfano is known for creating figurative and surrealistic sculpture that goes beyond the literal, adapting the figure to convey philosophical ideas and abstract concepts. He cites his major influences as Salvador Dali, Jo Davidson, and Jean-Antione Houdon, as well as Buddhist, Taoist, Sufi, and other eastern philosophy and literature. "When I dig into the clay, I pull out a vision that previously existed nowhere but inside my head, or some other place I don't know but am in touch with." Sometimes Michael sketches his ideas on paper, but most often sculpts a small model in clay or wax. He typically uses water-based clay to create the full-size sculpture. This can take anywhere from a few days to many months. Then he works with specialists to make a mold and create castings in cold cast copper, resin, or bronze. After casting a piece, Michael finishes and signs it, numbering the limited editions. "While there are various meanings to all of my sculptures, once a viewer sees it, they add their own equally valid interpretation. It's enriching and  when we discuss my artwork." http://www.malfano.com/artist.html