Altamira Fine Art in Jackson Hole, WY is pleased to present an exhibition of new work by Michael Blessing September 8-22, 2026.
Please join us for the Artist Reception on Friday, September 11th from 5-7pm.
West of Somewhere
“Many people think of the Old West as something distinctly American, but I see it as something bigger than a place. To me, it represents freedom, independence, new ideas, and the chance to start fresh. I bring those ideals into my work. I pull from both the past and the future, combining things that feel familiar with ideas that are completely new. I like the process of taking something I recognize and looking at it in a different way.” -Michael Blessing
Michael Blessing opens the door to all who seek their ideal of the West in his new exhibition. Harnessing the expansive feel of the great wide open, the freedom to roam, or just the possibility of a fresh start, West of Somewhere ignites the spirit of the cowboy and cowgirl in electric color and dynamic storytelling. “I think the allure of the West comes down to freedom, independence, and opportunity. For centuries, people have moved West looking for a place where they could work hard, make their own way, and build something for themselves. That idea still resonates today, even if the West looks different than it once did. There has always been a sense that somewhere West of where you are, there is room to stretch out, take a chance, and make a life on your own terms. It didn’t matter where you came from or who your people were. There was room for you.”, the artist says.
Michael Blessing enjoys exploring innovative ideas and incorporating unconventional techniques, methods, and mediums in his work. “I first got the idea to combine neon with my figurative work over a decade ago. I knew immediately that I wanted to use actual neon with my paintings, but developing the process took several years of research.”, Blessing says. Each component is custom-made for the painting and takes several months to complete. “I hand-wire each piece, which I really enjoy. For me, the neon is more than an added element. It is part of the story of each painting and a reminder from my youth that something extraordinary is about to occur. The combination of paint, light, and craftsmanship allows me to push my work beyond a traditional canvas and create something that feels alive.”, Blessing says. This feeling of aliveness is evident throughout the exhibition, his canvases commanding attention with a bold, edgy quality that is both contemporary and timeless.
Michael Blessing is an award-winning artist whose work has been featured in Art of the West, Western Art & Architecture, Big Sky Journal, Southwest Art and Western Art Collector magazines.
Pre-sales are available. Contact the gallery for details, 307-739-4700/ connect@altamiraart.com.
More images coming soon...
