Photo of Michael Barnes in pink and blue lighting in front of "In Blossom"

About Me

I am a Philadelphia based multi-media artist whose practice explores the possibilities of paper and wire as sculptural materials. Working primarily by hand, I combine cutting, quilling, collage, and construction to create intricate three-dimensional works that range from abstract form to fantastical interpretations of the natural world. Each sculpture develops through an extended process of cutting, shaping, layering, and assembling, often requiring more than 100 hours to complete. My works are presented in custom-built boxes with museum glass and integrated lighting, creating an intimate environment for viewing the sculptures. I am a self-taught artist whose practice has developed through sustained experimentation and an interest in the transformation of ordinary materials into complex immersive forms.