By Terri Bryce Reeves, Times Correspondent
In Print: Friday, November 6, 2009
“Just like the Old Masters painted people of their time with idealized Greco-Roman faces and in period dress, I paint handsome guys with chiseled faces in the uniforms of our time.” James Michaels, 64, of Palm Harbor
At 64, artist James Michaels doesn't own a business suit ... and that suits him just fine.
Then again, one of the most common subjects in his mural-sized paintings is men in business attire.
"I use men as a universal symbol of our society," said the Palm Harbor painter. "Just like the Old Masters painted people of their time with idealized Greco-Roman faces and in period dress, I paint handsome guys with chiseled faces in the uniforms of our time.
"Hundreds of years from now, people will look back and say, 'Look what they wore back then.' "
You can view Michaels' iconic images from corporate America at this weekend's Art Harvest, a juried event that brings more than 230 artists, hand-plucked from around the nation, to Dunedin's Highlander Park every year.
From 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, art aficionados can enjoy the autumnal weather under the oaks and the bounty of sculptures, jewelry, photography, paintings and ceramics, along with glass, metal and wood works.
The event, organized by the Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin, is in its 46th year.
"It's one of the biggest and best art shows in the Tampa Bay area, and we pride ourselves on the quality of artists and what it helps us do for the community," said Courtney Pagliari, one of three event chairwomen.
Proceeds will benefit foster children and community projects in Pinellas County.
A cornucopia of food will include Greek salads and spinach pies, gyros, bratwurst and Philly steak sandwiches. Wine and beer also will be for sale.
There will be drawings for entertainment, services, memberships, art and cosmetic procedures. Junior League cookbooks will be for sale.
A children's tent will offer youngsters free opportunities to make pine cone turkeys, tissue paper flowers and sculptures.
The featured artist is Juan Ramirez Cotrino of Tamarac. All artists will be on hand to discuss their work.
Michaels, who has sold his art to everyone from corporate kings to lawn boys, will bring murals in muted tones that combine two of his favorite styles, "painterly realism" and "pop expressionism."
He hopes his paintings provoke thought and generate memories with their symbolism of Ivy League schools, conformity, capitalism, pop culture and childhood fun.
"I've been doing this for 35 years," he said, "and it never fails to amaze me how people interpret paintings in different ways."
Have a Diversions idea for north Pinellas? Reach Terri Bryce Reeves at treeves@tampabay.rr.com.
Art Harvest
A juried art show hosted by the Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin featuring the works of more than 230 artists from across the country.
Where: Dunedin Highlander Park, Michigan Boulevard and Pinehurst Road.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Parking: On-site parking, $5. Or park for $3 at Dunedin High School, 1651 Pine- hurst Road, and take the shuttle.
News
