A Learned Natural Cover Artist Michael Guidry
14
I n side N ew Orl ean s
YOU MAY FEEL an instant sense of nostalgia when looking at one of Michael Guidry’s painted marsh creatures. Sweaty mornings on a flat boat as the sun appeared upon the horizon or soggy boots with net in hand as you peer into muddy water. No matter your age, we all have had those South Louisiana experiences. Michael explores those memories with oils on canvas. “I first started painting Louisiana subject matter based on trips I used to take out to our fishing camp in Lafourche Parish,” he reflects. “I would go out not even thinking about looking for subject matter, but then I couldn’t help but try to relive those things when I got back to my
studio.” Michael began collecting items like clumps of marsh grass, and assorted flora and fauna, including birds brought in by his duck-hunting friends. Posed with some directional lighting, Michael’s clump of marsh grass opened the door for his first solo show, Out of the Marsh. After professionally photographing the series, he eventually submitted the images to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival for consideration. “I got a letter that I was accepted as a Louisiana Nature Painter. Obliged to show what I got juried in with, I had to revisit it.” From banana stalks to alligators and gallinules above, Michael found that his subject matter was endless. >>
photo courtesy: MICHAEL GUIDRY
by Leah Draffen
