In 1997 I happened to be listening to one of Michael Jackson's songs, when I grabbed a pencil and began working on a drawing. Many of my works are created from images I have filed away in my mind. This piece was no exception. I have worked to music my entire life, and I have been inspired by almost every style of music out there. What moved me the most about Michael's music and his style, was his ability to visualize and express through his music and dance, that which beats and flows through each one of us. His ability to take what he is feels inside, and deliver it to hearts of millions so profoundly and emotionally has never wavered. When an artist such as Michael Jackson can convey volumes to the hearts of millions through his music, he has mastered the purest means of communication, communicating directly through one’s own heart, mind and spirit. I have always believed that very creative people need to archive a spiritual high, to in order to fulfill their purpose in life. Part of this spiritual high, is one’s own ability to communicate without words to the hearts of your fellow man. I believe he was aware of this, even at a very young age, nurturing and perfecting it his whole life. To say he was the "King of Pop" to me is less than what he was and what he contributed to lives. I think he was the greatest entertainer of all times. However "Greatest Entertainer" still sounds kind of tinny. I believe he brought each and every one of us closer to ourselves and to one another through the rhythm of his art. He showed us what the human spirit has the ability to do and accomplish, and gave 110% percent in everything he did in life and has been an inspiration to many, including myself.

My portrayal in this drawing was to capture the spirit of this man with as little detail as possible, trying to capture only a moment in time. .With his hand outreached, he exposes himself to whatever comes. He shows that it is what is within ones being that truly matters. I draw him with confidence, yet he looks to up to that which is greater than him for help. He extends his hands beyond the box drawn behind him, because this is where life truly begins and ends, and where ones creative contributions and purpose in life are acknowledged.