Michael Manly is a self-taught artist originally from Alabama and has painted and created things for most of his life. He thinks about it and dreams about it even when a brush is not in his hand. It's more than just canvas and paint to him; it's a part of him.

Michael has exhibited his work in the South since the mid-90's. His paintings of everyday life are infused with vivid colors and movement. Often with a musical theme in mind, he focuses on objects that draw the viewer into a colorful world of rhythm and spirit. Paintings frequently revolve around masked characters and dancing, animated subjects. Regardless of the topic, his goal is to evoke a familiar feeling, a question or an emotion.

Working mostly in acrylic, Michael often transitions into multi-media creations by adding a variety of found objects. Inspiration is drawn from daily life and by listening to and watching people in their world in normal and sometimes abnormal situations. Lastly, but importantly, music is a huge inspiration.

An Artrageous 1st place winner, Manly’s work has appeared in the Nashville Lifestyles Magazine, Nashville Scene, Decatur Daily News, Robertson County Times, Green Hills/Belle Meade News and Nfocus Magazine.