Every month, hundreds of galleries add newly available works by thousands of artists to the Artnet Gallery Network—and every week, we shine a spotlight on one artist you should know. Check out what we have in store, and inquire for more with one simple click.

Artist Michael Carson.

About the Artist: Minneapolis-based artist Michael Carson’s paintings usually present a singular figure set against an abstracted background against which they emerge or dissolve. His forthcoming solo show, “Romancing the Form” at Bonner David’s new Upper East Side boutique, is filled with these compelling pictures that pulsate with quiet human drama. 

Why We Like It: The men and women that occupy Carson’s images often look like literary characters—and the more time you spend with them, the more narrative possibilities emerge. We can picture these figures drinking, laughing, crying, and for all kinds of imaginable reasons. Carson instills in these paintings a sense of human drama while his brushwork maintains a directness and spontaneity that gives each painting its energy.

According to the Artist: “This series of paintings never had an attempted theme or specific direction,” Carson said. “It’s a culmination of hours and hours of completely selfish time playing in a studio. It really is a show about enjoying the making, being in the moment, and praying for moments of flow state to visit me.”

Duluth
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Michael Carson, Duluth (2020). Courtesy of Bonner David Galleries.

Wall Seat
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Michael Carson, Wall Seat (2020). Courtesy of Bonner David Galleries.

Direct Indirection
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Michael Carson, Direct Indirection (2020). Courtesy of Bonner David Galleries.

Sign
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Michael Carson, Sign (2020). Courtesy of Bonner David Galleries.

“Michael Carson:Romancing the Form” will be on view at Bonner David Art Boutique, 22 East 81st Street, New York, from May 6. The artist will be in attendance for the opening from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Capacity is limited.