For Artist Michael Breyette, The Male Body Is A True Work Of Art
Michael Breyette has been drawing since as long as he can remember. "I suppose I started doodling as a toddler and it's been a constant since then," he says. "I can't remember when I began drawing; it's just something that's always been there."
His passion for his craft and love of the male physique has transformed his childhood hobby into a full-time career in 2003. Michael keeps busy with his illustrations -- showing in galleries, creating book covers, publishing three books showcasing his art, and releasing a new 2008 calendar. He took some time out from his busy schedule to answer a few questions for Flesh 4 Men.
How would you define your art style? Why did you choose this style?I certainly would say my artwork falls under "realism." I never specifically chose this style, it's just how my art has manifested itself. I am more about illustrating the scene, capturing the moment, making it beautiful but still real and believable rather than a technique or look. I have tried different styles, mimicking the work of artists I've been inspired by, but I always come back to my way of working.
What subject matters do you draw? It wasn't until I had a significant body of work that I could see what themes were prevalent in what I was creating, and how my drawings were an extension of my personality and outlook. I obviously see tremendous beauty in the athletic male figure and enjoy capturing that.
Are you telling a story with your art? My art is not all about sex, in the same way being gay is not all about sex; it's a significant part but not the whole. Pieces I create may vary from romantic to sexual, whimsical to sociopolitical, but there are consistent threads woven throughout. Granted, I am celebrating the beauty of the male physique and aspects of being gay, but my works also evoke a strong positive vibe and the notion that there is joy and beauty in the simplest moments of life.
I think people resonate with my stuff because the men in my paintings are content and comfortable with themselves in what may be perceived as mundane moments. It's men simply living their lives. They just happen to be gay.
Is it easy or difficult being a full-time artist? I wouldn't call it easy. Working from home, making my own schedule, answering only to myself, doing something I love -- those are the pluses. The business end is the rough stuff. Being totally responsible for yourself is a lot of pressure.
I am not complaining. I think it's amazing I have supported myself by doing something I'd probably be doing anyway. It's a nice lifestyle but certainly not for everyone. Each year I do a little better as demand for my originals continues to drive up the prices and prints continue to sell.
How have art lovers received your work? I get a good deal of traffic to my website gallery. I have many fans who regularly add to their collections. I believe the audience is fairly varied, of course mostly gay men, but some women as well. I have some well-off collectors who have purchased multiple originals as well as guys on fixed incomes who treat themselves to a small print, a magnet or have only bought the book. I like being able to offer my work in different formats and different price ranges. I don't think your financial situation should deny you from having art you enjoy in your home.
Where can people see your work? Being on the shy side, exhibiting is not my favorite thing …but I know it reaches a whole other audience who don't know me from my internet presence.
Most of my sales are through my website, www.breyette.com. It may be surprising to know that collectors spend thousands of dollars on originals they've only seen on a computer monitor. I've never had any unsatisfied customers though. Even with my prints. People keep coming back and adding to their collections.
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