Mickey Baxter-Spade
Mickey Baxter-Spade is a Colorado-based artist who specializes in custom designed murals and limited edition fine art giclees of original paintings. Known for infusing her love of nature into her original compositions, Mickey has just released a new line of contemporary art, rich in color and flowing design that sparks the imagination.
Mickey’s unique artistic creations grace the halls of well known resorts throughout the country, including the Broadmoor Resort in Colorado, Kingsmill Resort in Virginia and the Wigwam Resort in Arizona. Her whimsical stylistic works can also be viewed in commercial, hospital and home settings throughout the U.S. and Canada. Mickey’s freehand custom designs have found a home in entry halls, wine cellars, visiting areas and residences. Her trademark Bumble Bee care- fully placed in all of her murals . . . just a reminder that one should always follow their dreams!
Philosophy /
My philosophy is based on my trademark bumble bee. According to scientific data the bumble bee shouldn’t be able to fly yet somehow it does. As a self taught artist I have had the opportunity to fly, reaching artistic levels far beyond my expectations. The people and projects that have challenged me have also been the most instrumental in my growth. If you always stay within your comfort zone you will may never know your capabilities . . . take a chance.
Artist Statement /
While I am painting, a joyful warmth washes over me. When I finish I often feel that little giggle inside, like a playful child who feels she has “gotten away with something”. She knows she wasn’t alone while she was painting. With all that nature has endowed us, flowers intrigue me most. Once I choose a subject, I enjoy taking an abundance of photos from several angles. Through the camera lens you see the most intricate detail. I am in awe at the magnificence found in a single blossom. The delicate shapes, the variations in color and the sunshine creating translucent petals and intriguing shadows make for a challenging painting. Of course, there also needs to be a few birds, bugs and a bee to add a bit of whimsey. My wish for those who view my painting is that it brings a smile to their face, a tear to their eye or perhaps . . . a little giggle. When this happens, my work is complete.
Artist Statement /
Contemporary art has beckoned me for some time. This past year has been a time of many changes, tremendous personal growth and a time to explore different avenues of art. The appeal of collage, in particular, brings forth the freedom of not being restricted to forms or shapes, with texture adding a new element of interest. Contemporary art evokes feelings, thoughts and emotions which direct the form versus catering to a form. Putting it another way, it’s when your paintbrushes are free to dance across the paper, twirling from one puddle of color into another. It’s almost musical. For this reason I have named this series after some of my favorite dances. Art is not so much about what ends up on the canvas as it is about the process. For me creativity in any form is a release, an expression in and of itself, a connection to something beyond our understanding, something that connects us all. I hope you enjoy your dance through the Contemporary Collage series.
