Artist Interview: Mike Stone
With over 25 years of passion for creating digital art, Mike Stone utilizes various 3D software programs to create his digital abstract designs. Inspired by William Latham, a pioneer in computer art and game design, Mike began his journey into 3D art with Latham’s 'Organic Art' software in the 1990s, sparking a lifelong love for abstract digital art.
As a member of ACM Siggraph’s Digital Arts Community and holding a professional degree in Electronics Technology, the Chicago-based artist has exhibited work at major art venues throughout the area and gained national attention through features on 'CBS Sunday Morning.’
We asked Mike about his art, creative process, and inspirations.
Medusa Gold by Mike Stone
Can you tell us about your background as a digital artist? How did you get started in this field?
Back in the 1990’s, I learned 3D Studio with the help of a good friend who was working for a big media company. That was the stepping stone for other 3D programs and learning other software. I also did (and still do) Beta testing of 3D software from some very talented people. One of the programs I still use today, but only runs on a dedicated Windows 2000 machine. Software has come a long way since the 90’s when some programs ran on DOS. I am very fortunate to have learned many programs and the mentors that taught me them.
Pride Color by Mike Stone
What inspires your art? Are there any particular themes or subjects that you enjoy exploring through your artwork?
I really enjoy working with different lighting, which produces shadows, color and texture. I also enjoy black and white renders. It adds a new look that a color render would not be able to produce. I have always loved abstract style.
Steam Curls by Mike Stone
What is an event which you consider a milestone in your digital art career?
Just last year one of my pieces was up on the grand staircase at the famous ‘Hotel Chelsea’ hotel in NYC. The hotel has a rich history and many stars and musicians have stayed there. They were doing a story about the hotel on CBS Sunday Morning TV program and my sun was chosen for the end of the segment. I contacted the hotel after the broadcast and asked if they wanted a signed print from the broadcast and they said they would love it. I sent it off and they framed it and displayed it in the famous hotel.
Rainbow Burst by Mike Stone
Can you tell us about William Latham, and his creative influence on your work? How has his work shaped your artistic style or approach?
He is a British computer artist, most known as the creator of the Organic Art software. I purchased the software back in the 1990’s and started using it. I loved the many different textures, lighting and shapes you could create. Mr. Latham has authored a book called Evolutionary Art and Computers together with Stephen Todd, in 1992. Based on their work at the IBM(UK) Scientific Centre in Winchester, by generating 3-d computer models of organic life forms, using genetic algorithm based techniques to mutate base forms into artistic creations. A real pioneer in the art world.
Odds n Ends by Mike Stone
You often work with rotational symmetry and circular patterns that’s reminiscent of mandala designs – what do they represent in your work?
They represent full circle style of art. I submit to CBS Sunday Morning for the ‘sun’ art shown at end of each segment on the show. I have been chosen over 100 times since 2017 for the program and have a book showing my suns and airdates on the show. I always love to view a mandala style design. There is a calmness about the style. I have always loved symmetry in design.
Fiesta del sol by Mike Stone
What is a profound childhood memory?
One I remember is going to see the fireworks on 4th of July. I liked the variety of colors that lit up the night sky and how some would fade into the darkness. One of the hardest things is to reproduce that look.
Color Melt by Mike Stone
How do you see digital arts evolve in the future?
We have already seen a big increase in AI software. I think we will continue to see software pushing boundaries. VR (virtual reality) is also very big now. There are more companies getting into VR now more than ever. Look for more and more features in VR.
Blue fur by Mike Stone
