Michael Walsh [Coming Full Circle]

"Coming Full Circle" is an exhibition that takes place on the city block where more than two decades ago Michael Walsh was inspired to become an artist. South Highland Avenue is where he and his friends hung out, rode skateboards, and painted graffiti. Growing up Michael had big dreams of becoming a professional skateboarder; but it was graffiti that would become his passion for the next twenty years. “The first time I remember spray painting graffiti on a wall was in the alleyway behind where The Gallery 4 stands now." Ten years ago Michael found himself on this same corner hired to design and build TimeBomb for his old East End friend Brick. He helped reshape the inside of the store into a futuristic industrial shopping experience. "I keep finding myself revisiting this location and each time it gives me a sense of pride."

A Pittsburgh native from Highland Park, Michael's blue collar work ethic has kept him closer to the street and the true urban art movements rather than the homogeneous commercialization that has diluted American culture at large. Michael feels a deep connection to the men and women who built this city and dreamed of an innovative America. "Metal is Pittsburgh and so am I. It is only natural that an artist from this place carry the torch of it’s identity. I've used metals in particular to create contemporary art because I enjoy combining a strong history with a forward thinking agenda." Michael has worked with metal for over twenty years drawing inspiration from modern architecture, modern sculpture, and of course graffiti.

Over the years Michael has used sculpture and design as his primary artistic outlets. This series of objects is a continuation of a visual dialogue created from the compositional elements and movement of his letter-based graffiti art. He explores the way these forms, in various degrees of deconstruction, create a composition that expresses the essence of the graffiti letter. His intention in these works is to stay true to his original inspiration while expanding their potential through contemporary and modern sculptural influences. Michael uses a broad array of mediums including cast and fabricated metals, high density foam, and epoxy resins. A truly original approach coming from a post-graffiti movement.

To view this show or purchase the sculptures visit The Gallery 4 at 206 South Highland Avenue (412.363.5050).