Cheval Michael - Critical and Public Response

Critical and Public Response

Every one of Cheval's paintings is a map of his journey into illusion. His work is often metaphorical and requires a sharp eye to decipher the hidden allusions. Figurative objects are used as symbols; the human form is often only alluded to. Instead of relying on cultural sources, he explores deep motives of unconsciousness that are easily understood because they are universal. He paints using the language of dreams, juxtaposing things that "should not" exist together in an often otherwise realistic style, making it easier to accept.

Cheval’s artwork is crafted with the virtuosity of great masters belonging to the Golden Age of Dutch art and conjures visions of supernatural domains, doorways into parallel realities, and glimpses into the world of absurdity (13). The irrational and the mysterious is expressed simply and clearly in his paintings, which are often similar to photographs. The familiar, however, is inevitably invaded by the unreal: unfeasible spheres, floating under the arches of gothic cathedrals, a violin sliding down the pipes, countless masks, continually changing and leaving their characters for different roles. Moments of time collide; threads from one world seep into another; life on its stage with the fine strings controlling our actions is caught, momentarily, like a photo somehow capturing the hand of God.

Each of his paintings leads its own individual existence. They come to life in a mysterious and magical way, and, after leaving their creator, they become viable entities that possess a spiritual force and an ability to initiate a dialog as well as to gather around itself groups of adherents.