Michael Banks will bring his unique style of folk art to Hillsborough, with an exhibit that will run in the town's Visitors Center from Jan. 19 to April 22.
The exhibit is called “Michael Banks: Art to Live By.” Mike’s Art Truck, an online art gallery and vendor run by Karen and Greg Mack, is running the exhibit in tandem with the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough. Visitors to the exhibit will be able to buy pieces from the collection through Mike’s Art Truck.
Banks is a self-taught artist from Northern Alabama. The Macks came to know him through his art about a decade ago, and have shown and sold his art since.
Much of Banks’ artwork is surreal. He has a distinct, recognizable style. He frequently uses tar alongside more traditional materials for his paintings. About Banks' non-traditional style, Karen Mack said: “The point, I think, if there is any point, is to engage the viewer to look at the painting and actually think about it.”
Many of Banks' portraits feature subjects with multiple eyes, oddly shaped features and unusual color schemes. Banks said his favorite paintings of the new collection are a series of paintings he made of his hand.
“It represents giving,” Banks said. “The hands are either moving forward, or holding things going forward.”
Banks has always been an artist and remembers drawing when he was 6 years old. Banks said necessity drew him to art.
"I remember when I started drawing I’d use my mom’s lipstick or mascara or eyeliner," Banks said. "I guess it’s just a natural thing.”
Karen Mack also emphasized the uniqueness of Banks’ art.