As a N. J. public school art teacher for 25 years, Howard
Michaels has maintained his persona as a practicing fine artist
throughout his career.
Born
and raised in New Jersey, Michaels has explored many mediums,
including self-publishing two books in the 1980's, with
co-author Marsha Cudworth, on Cape May. Victorian Holidays, a
guide to B&B Inns and restaurants and the Self Guided
Architectural Tour book were fully illustrated innovative
guides published at the height of Cape Mays renaissance as a
popular vacation spot.
Michaels' interest in historical scenes from his home
state led him to develop a collection of original vintage
Jersey Shore photographs which he individually hand tinted,
using photo oils. A full page featuring his skill and unique
subject matter was selected to appear in The Marshall's Hand
Coloring Guide and Gallery Book (Grace and George Schaub,
1995).
From
mixed media collage and painted images of 1960's iconic fashion
models to his hand cut stenciled and spray painted canvases,
Michaels has maintained a steady production of creative
works.
Mediums such as drawings, photography (including hand
tinting, travel and humorously edited images), traditional
paintings, sculptural/masks and holiday cards are other areas
the artist has explored.