Annals of a Former World
MICHAEL BAUM
Manitou Galleries
Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1950, Michael Baum’s first home was a trailer traveling from Oklahoma to Ohio, where his family settled. Mike was always drawing or painting (dinosaurs mainly). Most years, his family would take road trips to Florida or Michigan, or camp at local parks. These experience are among his fondest memories and set the course his life would take.
In the late 1960s and early ‘70s, Mike attended Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio, studying psychology, anthropology, and fine art. In 1973 he earned a BFA in fine art, but his real education began when he moved to Colorado.
“I’ve been exploring the West for more than 35 years and barely scratched the surface. I’ve been painting it almost as long and feel like I’m just getting started. It’s beauty and immensity go beyond the visual and dig deep into the soul. Getting to that essence is the challenge of a lifetime. Plus, it’s just great fun.”
Today, Michael Baum specializes in contemporary representational paintings focusing on Western and Southwestern landscapes. He is represented in many private, corporate, and public collections both nationally and internationally. Mike lives, works, and enjoys life in Manitou Springs, Colorado.