Delve into the overlooked and underappreciated artistic genre of text-based art. For centuries people have been using words in creative visual ways, but usually their work is either slotted into other genres or pushed aside completely, despite some of the biggest names in art fitting into this category.
During each show we’ll sit down for a talk with an artist who uses words as a major focus in their practice for an in-depth look at where is their work is taking them next, what are the ways that using text helps them get their message across, and what was it that drew them to this style in the first place.
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Delve into the overlooked and underappreciated artistic genre of text-based art. For centuries people have been using words in creative visual ways, but usually their work is either slotted into other genres or pushed aside completely, despite some of the biggest names in art fitting into this category.
During each show we’ll sit down for a talk with an artist who uses words as a major focus in their practice for an in-depth look at where is their work is taking them next, what are the ways that using text helps them get their message across, and what was it that drew them to this style in the first place.
Michael James Schneider's quotes that promote positive mental health rendered in mylar balloons have become an online sensation. They seem somewhat destined to succeed, but his route to this point was far from assured. A self-taught artist, Michael has gone from retail management to now releasing his second book on August 5th, 2025, with a special book signing happening on Saturday, August 9th at Powell's Books in Portland.
We discuss the new book, some of the bad advice he received along the way, and his symbiotic relationship with a very unexpected group of people.
Instagram: @blcksmth
X: @BLCKSMTHdesign
Online store: https://blcksmth.dashery.com/
Powell's book signing event: https://www.powells.com/events/michael-james-schneider-8-9-25
Penguin Books: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/728757/the-writings-on-the-wall-by-michael-james-schneider/
Finding the Words
Delve into the overlooked and underappreciated artistic genre of text-based art. For centuries people have been using words in creative visual ways, but usually their work is either slotted into other genres or pushed aside completely, despite some of the biggest names in art fitting into this category.
During each show we’ll sit down for a talk with an artist who uses words as a major focus in their practice for an in-depth look at where is their work is taking them next, what are the ways that using text helps them get their message across, and what was it that drew them to this style in the first place.
