Artist Statement

"Michael’s creativity knows no limits, he continues to push himself.  We all become part of his theatrical creations and he honors each and every one of us. One must explore up close to greatly appreciate how his mind works."—Crimson Rose, Burning Man Co-founder and Cultural Architect

 

“The first time I experienced Burning Man there was one piece I visited over and over. Michael Garlington‘s PhotoChapel drew me back time and again. The next opportunity I had the space to plan a Black Rock adventure, I was determined in the spirit of Burning Man to contribute. Timothy Leary had left me a portion of his ashes, and I knew he would appreciate being scattered there. Fate led me to Michael and Natalia, who immediately embraced the idea of making “Totem of Confessions” metaphoric and actual home for the great Dr. Leary…And when it burned, it was magnificent… The flames shot straight up thru the colored glass cupola, and a bluish column ignited. We watched, all the crew, Michael, Natalia, together, a single whirlwind formed on the side and grew larger and larger. We agreed that was probably Tim.”—Susan Sarandon

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"An authentic western wunderkind with magic up both his sleeves!!!"

—Chris Flever, Filmmaker, Director

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"I remember the first time I saw one of Michael Garlington's pieces. It was a huge sculpture called Ego at Burning Man and I was taken back. I knew I had to hunt this guy down and find out who he was. The next year I found him and we connected on so many levels. True kindred spirits in the way we approached sculpture and art in general. Our shops hold many of the same tools and our work reflects the same serendipitous spirit. There's a certain way that we both approach creation, letting materials and moments guide us toward something unexpected. Michael's pieces carry a playfulness and authenticity that remind me why we make art in the first place. Knowing how important composition, contrast and substance can work together to connect with the viewer in a powerful way".— Duane Flatmo, Artist, El Pulpo Magnifico/Mecanico

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"Michael Garlington is the purest essence of an artist -- he is utterly driven to create and iterate, never replicate. He sees the world through a camera lens and a discerning eye, filtered through his endless imagination and equal parts of whimsy, decadence, and elegy. He is like the love child of Robert Mapplethorpe and Charles Addams, revealing simultaneous beauty and degradation. His work is riveting and timeless. Just when I think I have seen his best work, he reveals a new version that is utterly captivating and collectible."—Jennifer Raiser, Author, Burning Man Treasurer

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