index                    style                      clubs                     bands                   divas                      boy                       more                  updates
MICHAEL  GWALTNEY
bio by Nicky London
Where do you originate from and when did you arrive in New York?
I was the product of a short-lived romance occurring in 1975 in the bible belt of North Carolina. Disillusioned and ambitious I moved to New York in 2003.

Current occupation and/or title
I support myself as a makeup artist; however, fashion and self-expression are my passions. They enrich the monotony of my everyday routine.

Inspiration (movies, designers, performers, music, color, etc., etc.)
I am inspired by anything that elicits a visceral emotion from within. Tragic beauty, the truthfulness of beauty resulting from pain and sorrow inspires me more than beauty in itself. This frequently is an undercurrent in my work and chosen look. Artistic extremes inspire me and at times narcissistic; influenced by contrast, juxtaposition tempered with perfection. While I loathe pop culture, I am drawn to its subversion through pop art. Furthermore my fascination with the anti-art movement in its celebration of the seemingly mundane, largely define my aesthetic. Simply put …… I am inspired more by ideas than individuals.

Objective - Tell me your dreams, why did you come to New York, what are your aspirations?
Happiness and personal fulfillment seldom come with monetary success or acclaim; so with respect to my aspiration…I strive to live with integrity, seeking the truth in myself without compromising who I am, what I believe and what my art is.

Where do see yourself in 5 or 10 years?
Free.

If you could give one piece of advise to someone who has aspirations of following in your footsteps what would it be?
Balance confidence with humility and trust your instincts…………..
MICHAEL  GWALTNEY MENU