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"PROTOTYPES: For Feeling [blank]"

This collection is made up of firsts. These are prototypes: for future art, for personal growth, for forgiveness through color, form, texture, and instinct. A mess of styles and techniques and happy accidents. A collection of starts that make sense as a whole.

The early seeds of future series, these post-Covid creations were born from instinct, emotion, and grit. Each painting stands on its own, but together they are a reflection of creative humility pushing through the chaos of self-sabotage.

"The Olympics Opening Ceremony is Awesome"

"Prototypes: For Feeling [blank]" is open to the public during business hours at In Fine Spirits, located at 5418 North Clark Street, Chicago.

view the prototypes collection view other series

meet the artist

MICHAEL STUART THOMPSON

I’m a self-taught artist based in Chicago, originally from Kentucky. I started painting in 2021 without expecting it to matter this much.

My work is raw and emotional—whatever I’m feeling when I pick up the brush. Joy, fear, boredom, bitterness. I mostly use acrylics, sometimes layering in gouache, ink, drywall mesh tape, or masking tape for texture and tension. I apply color using broad strokes inspired by balayage, a technique I picked up as a hairdresser.

My process is layered, messy, and full of contradictions—chaotic but searching for balance. Sometimes I rescue pieces I almost trashed. Painting helps me cope, reflect, and feel human. It’s survival, but with color.

Titles aren’t literal. They’re honest, playful, and a reminder not to take it all too seriously. I hope the work speaks—emotionally, absurdly, and truthfully."

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I appreciate your business and strive to make your art buying experience as seamless as possible. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, I offer hassle-free returns within 30 days of delivery. To initiate a return or exchange, please reach out via email or phone with your order details and reason for return. All returned items must be in their original condition and packaging, with all tags and labels intact. Refunds will be processed to the original payment method within 10 business days of receipt of the returned item. Shipping fees will apply to all exchanges.

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Description from Merchant:

Mike Thompson takes great care in selecting the highest quality materials to create his artwork and prints. He uses archival inks, acid-free paper, and canvas that are all certified to meet or exceed museum-level quality standards. This ensures that his artwork and prints are protected against fading, yellowing, and other forms of deterioration over time. Additionally, Mike carefully follows archival preservation techniques and storage practices to further ensure the longevity of his artwork and prints.

All Works of Mike Thompson

Balayaged

Latticed

5927 N Paulina St #1E

Chicago, IL 60660

(773) 949-3009