Michael Mapes

For most of his works Mapes deconstructs the source image literally and figuratively and reconstructs the representation of an original painting as a collection of hundreds of individual parts. Beyond prints of the actual painting, Mapes incorporates factual and fictionalized content utilizing entomological and forensic approaches. This content includes genealogy info, costume jewelry, clothing fragments, fabric samples, dental X-rays, fingerprints, hair samples, paint samples, and additional photos of human subjects.

The incorporation of what Mapes terms as “biographical DNA” becomes a unique reinterpretation of the original painted subject. When examined individually, these parts inspire speculation. Collectively, they form a representation of the original painted subject

Mapes had several solo and group exhibitions in galleries and museums in the USA and around the world, e.g. ‘Anatomy of the Muse’, Opera Gallery, Hong Kong, ‘Cut-Copy-Paste’, Beers Contemporary, London. His works can be found in private and public collections.

Mapes holds a BFA and MFA from the University of Illinois. He lives and works in the greater New York area, USA.