New and affordable art classes and lessons are being offered by artist Michael Hanna, who just moved to Knoxville. Mr. Hanna is a critically acclaimed artist who came to East Tennessee to start a new life and a new style of art, after achieving success in the Northeastern United States, he plans on expanding his art career in the South.

Hanna was attracted to Knoxville’s booming art scene and the beauty of Appalachian nature. Known for his linear-based paintings and drawings, he is shifting towards what he calls “achieving the highest degree of idealism and beauty, juxtaposing nature with architecture”.

Enlightened Elevation

Hanna has had 35 exhibitions, including 8 solo exhibits. Notable solo shows include displays in massive art spaces such as the Atrium Gallery in Morristown, NJ and the Victoria Gallery in Paterson, as well as a solo exhibit in the competitive Chelsea district of New York City at the Wix Gallery. The art critic, Gail Gelburd, PhD of Eastern Connecticut University wrote of his work as “a dynamic energy of shifting planes at once seemingly out of control, and yet harmoniously and uneasily contained and balanced . . . Hanna is a cultural rebel who sees no boundaries....” The Daily Record reacted to his Atrium exhibit as a “dizzying journey through the chaotic structures . . . These compositions bloom (or blast) out of his philosophical musings on technology and contemporary life”. Hanna is also a former art gallery owner and curator who has worked with over 100 artists from around the world.

The art classes Michael Hanna offers are taught at his new artist studio in North Knoxville where students can see firsthand his work in progress. As to his teaching style, Hanna states “I teach technique from the point of view of the old masters but am also deeply philosophical and give breathing room for the student to grow independently and naturally without being overbearing. Technique is important but so is experimentation and I respect the independence of every artist”. For more information about Michael Hanna’s art classes and lessons, visit CountryArtAcademy.com. He can be contacted at 732-427-1661 or by e-mail at countrartacademy@gmx.com.