Saturday, February 27, 2010

A visit with Michael deMeng in Mexico

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On Thursday, we ventured out after a leisurely brunch  to pay a visit to  Michael deMeng who was teaching a four day class at Hacienda Mosaico here in Puerto Vallarta. Michael toured us around the large open air  workshop, and graciously gave me an overview of some of the various techniques he employs to create his fabulous and famous shrines and assemblages.

Michael pointed out how often  people don't realize how much of his work involves a number of different paint techniques to create the rich and ancient surfaces that make his art pieces look as though they were catapulted out of centuries past.  He spends  a significant amount of time reviewing and demonstrating many of his paint techniques at his workshops.

I was delighted to have the opportunity to see some of his pieces 'in person' (see below)  No matter how precise the photography, believe me, Michael's art is spectacularly precious and detailed beyond what a camera could possibly  capture.  He truly is a master!

       
in the Hacienda Mosaico studio



Michael invited me to take a sneak peek at his  new book (preorders available here) "Dusty Diablos: Folklore, Iconography, Assemblage, Ole!"   I only leafed through a few pages but from what I saw, it was packed full of instructions and techniques.  I've ordered mine! 





"The Blue Devils" and  "The Lonely Heart Shrines"



The "stash"  in the studio of all things old and rusty - Michael said Sam (the owner of Hacienda Mosaico) had collected this assortment of 'diamonds in the rough'  in anticipation of his workshop.


Another outstanding assemblage piece by Michael deMeng


For more information on Michael's upcoming workshops, visit his blog here






12 comments:

Four Seasons in a Life said...

DEar Trudi,

I remember when you hoped to be able to attend his class and I see that your wish was granted. I am so very happy for you.

From what you are sharing with us, I see that you are having a terrific time and learning much. I will look forward to seeing more of what you experienced at the workshop.

All my best to you,
Egmont

Kim Palmer said...

How lucky you were Trudi. I knew you would love Michael's work when you saw it.I bet you're popping with ideas for your assemblage bits now, LOL! Of course now I'm very jealous as you have managed to catch up with the fab DeMeng so quickly while I am only still dreaming of attending one of those workshops!

.Trudi Sissons said...

Thanks for your comments! Just to clarify - it was a visit for an hour - not an entire workshop!

Tuire Flemming said...

Hi! I haven´t heard about Michael deMeng before - but his works looks absolutely stunning! Thanks for posting! Have to explore closer what he has done.

Debby said...

You lucky girl, thanks for sharing the pics. Everything looks so awesome and I know how thrilled you must be.
Debby

Healing Woman said...

You really make me want to visit Mexico again and maybe take a class with Michael.

Thanks for posting!

Terri Kahrs said...

OH, Trudi! Even an hour in heaven is better than no time at all!!! Lucky, lucky YOU! I'm sure your mind is filled with ideas. Your pictures are tantalizing! Enjoy the rest of your vacation!!!! Hugs, Terri xoxo

Caterina Giglio said...

yeah, that is what I thought you said, I have not taken his workshops either but I have seen his work up close here in Ft Collins and it is spectacular and he is as nice as his work is stunning!

Seth said...

What a great experience this must have been. I have given up trying to decide which appeals to me more: Michael's creations or that table filled with treasure! I decided that I covet them both!! I have also been lucky enough to see one of his pieces in person -- it goes so far beyond what pictures convey!

Anonymous said...

Michael is so fun to take a class with, I have had the pleasure to take two. Thanks for sharing.

I want you to know that I have a Beautiful Blogger Award at my blog "spot" for you if you want to come and pick it up.

http://dosfishes.blogspot.com/2010/03/lovely-gift.html

layers said...

How lucky for you-- to get to visit such wonderful artist-- I have his first book-- so much wonderful rusty art work--

rivergardenstudio said...

Wow, Trudy, these shots of Michael deMeng and his work are amazing. I am going to look at his workshop schedule next! And I love your new piece of your muse. Beautiful! roxanne