About

Photo credit: Alexandra Sheremet 

Artist's Statement
I explore seemingly random visual elements through layers of mark-making, creating dense amalgamations of symbols and abstraction drawn from the chaotic urban landscape. My process relies in an evolving dialogue guided by historical techniques, drawing from memory and imagination that challenges any single movement.
Each mark, layer, and revision reflects an ongoing conversation between material and meaning, leaving behind traces of the moment I find myself observing. I remain deeply attuned to the visual interpretations that surface, challenging my own assumptions of what an image can become. Each mark is a visceral response to the tools and materials at hand.
For me, beauty lies in the tension between abstraction and symbolism—where layers create relationships that shape the viewer’s experience. My practice aims to explore the layers of emotion and imagination fostering a dialogue of our shared human story within the intersection of memory, identity, and materiality. 
Biography
Born in Denver, Colorado, Michael Gadlin studied art and design at Pratt Institute in New York.  With over 28 years of studio practice he’s been exhibiting in select galleries, museums, and institutions throughout his career. He’s also been commissioned by governments, Fortune 100 corporations, and private collectors. In 1999 Michael was then the youngest artist to ever win Best of Show at Denver’s nationally renowned Cherry Creek Arts Festival.  Michael has received artist-in-residence through La Napoule Art Foundation (LNAF), in the south of France. Collections include the Vance Kirkland Museum's permanent collection. 
Michael’s media work has extended throughout local television as the host and producer for Rocky Mountain PBS’ long-running program, Arts District, and as the Creator and Host of Channel 8 TV’s Arts Scene. Michael’s public artwork commissions include Cherry Creek Trail through Denver’s Urban Arts Fund, District 2 Police Station, River North Pathway, Adams County Arts Commission at Riverdale Regional Park, and the former Johnson & Wales campus redevelopment, now called Mosaic Campus in 2023. In September 2024 Michael completed another large sculptural commission for the Rocky Mountain Arsenal. 

Michael C. Gadlin
Artist, Educator, & Community Leader
27+ years of experience in public art, mentorship, and collaboration.
Leadership & Community Impact

• Board Member: Reach Volunteering, PlatteForum, Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
• Artist-in-Residence: La Napoule Art Foundation
• Advocate for diversity, creativity, and inclusive leadership.
Awards & Honors

• Best in Show, Cherry Creek Arts Festival
• Community Leadership Award, Denver Public Schools
• Prominent recognition in diverse artistic and public projects.
• Arts Relief Grant Fund recipient, 2020, 2021
• Artist Residency: La Napoule, France, 2013
Education & Mentorship

• Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, N.Y. 1991-94
• Design & Visual Communications
• Metropolitan State University of Denver, 1995
• Certificate in Inclusive Leadership (Coursera/CU) 2021
• Extensive experience mentoring young artists and leading creative workshops.
Public Art Projects & Impact

Led numerous community-focused public art projects.
Collaborated with international and local art institutions to create impactful public art work.
SELECTED PRESS
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