Exhibition: September 4-27, 2026
Opening Reception: Friday, September 4, 5-9 p.m.
Artist Talk: Saturday, September 19, 3-4 p.m.
Werk Gallery presents Tradition and Impulse: Deconstructing the Modern Myth, featuring paintings and illustrations by Clearwater artist C. Michael Erickson, on view September 4-27.
Drawing on global mythology and the European Middle Ages, Erickson creates highly realistic works that reinterpret familiar myths and invite viewers to question traditional narratives. His influences include early Disney animation, John William Waterhouse, Frank Frazetta, and Larry Elmore.
Working with classical “Old Master” techniques, including graphite transfer and grisaille underpainting, Erickson builds richly layered paintings that combine technical precision with imaginative storytelling. Many of his works are “problem pictures,” presenting ambiguous scenes that encourage viewers to complete the story themselves. In Slayer, for example, what first appears to be a classic battle between knight and dragon is revealed to be a dragon defending her nest, challenging expectations about heroism and villainy.
About the Artist
C. Michael Erickson was born in Rapid City, South Dakota, and has lived in Florida since infancy. Based in Clearwater, he studied at the Pinellas County Center for the Arts at Gibbs High School, St. Petersburg College, and Florida Metropolitan University, where he earned an Associate of Arts degree with a concentration in Commercial Art.
In addition to his fine art practice, Erickson has illustrated Game of Thrones game cards for Fantasy Flight Games and produced artwork for Bastion Press and Goodman Games. His work has been featured in numerous regional exhibitions, earning Best of Show (2011), First Place (2010), and Honorable Mention (2012) in the Pinellas County Employee Art Exhibitions.
About the Gallery
The Werk Gallery and Object Lab at 2210 1st Ave S in St. Petersburg was born three years ago from the passion and overflowing collection of Fritz and Matthew Faulhaber. It is a locally focused art venue with an international scope and “the world’s greatest gift shop”. The Gallery displays a variety of art experiences; from our series of community-oriented, large group shows to solo shows by internationally established contemporary artists.