From the many talented artists who show their work at JordanCon, Michael Bielaczyc’s body of work is among the most diverse. Michael works in many different media — sometimes all at once — but his favorites are oil paints and video. He himself would tell you that he is happiest when he is in the middle of twenty different projects, and his studio is often littered with the starts of illustrations, masks and paintings, manuscripts and sculptures. Ideas. At JordanCon, you can usually find him at the Charity Art Jam cranking out art for the Charity Auction, or hard at work in the Aradani Studios booth. Go by and say hello.
How long have you considered yourself an artist?
I have been making stuff as far back as I can remember, (you know, the standard answer for any creative person, right?). But I have been selling my art professionally since 2002. Paul (my brother) and I started traveling to Renaissance festivals and Fandom conventions; we’ve been showing our work for over 15 years!
What was the subject and title of the first piece of art you ever sold?
The first piece I ever sold was a drawing of a little imp in colored pencil, but the first art my studio (Aradani) ever sold was a fairy drawing my sister did when we first started. She was only 13!
Which artist do you find most inspirational? Why?
Many artists have moved me down the path, but the 2nd edition TSR Dungeons & Dragons books are what shaped me. Larry Elmore and Jeff Easley made me want to learn to paint. Then 3rd edition came along and Todd Lockwood showed me how I should be painting action scenes.
What’s the one thing you most enjoy about attending conventions?
My favorite thing about conventions are the people. I have friend all over the United States because of cons. Everyone is so friendly and supportive.
What do you see as the primary link between writing and art? (If you think there is one.)
They are the same thing, right? One crafts a scene through words, and the other describes the words through a scene.
If you’d like to find out more about the authors and artists who share their work at JordanCon, check out our other “Meet the Artist” blogs.
