Michael B. Rude

What is your favorite art medium to work in, and why?

Repurposed wire and sliced hose rings. Chainmail, like knitting, has a rythm and routine of movement. It's relaxing while building. There is a pattern to maintain that can be challenging. It's a unique puzzle to get lined up just right. Plastic is not usually used with chainmail. The hose rings give elasticity to the stuffed shapes and add color and contrast to the metal rings.

When did you first figure out that art was important to you?

At nine, my sister attended summer camp at CCAC. Fimo polymer clay was then added to the household art cabinet, next to dried out water colors and construction paper. I then made my own toys, a collection of tiny sculpture action figures. They're not dolls. The best part was the control of the entire process, mixing colors, sculping parts, assembly and firing.

Who is your art mentor?

Alexander Calder's but specifically his wire circus, toy figures made from wire and wood. He would preform with these kinetic sculptures, bringing it to life by playing with them and narrating the action. The whole collection packed away into a growing number of suitcases.

Finish this sentence: My art is my...

Voice. My art can carry a message farther to eyes than my words can to ears.

What advice would you offer someone just beginning their exploration of their own artistic self?

Try everything. Each media has a skill set and different tool box. Build your own tool box from the best of what you find. Inspiration can come from anywhere.

Do you have a website or blog you would like us to link to?

Instagram : @michaelbrudeart