An atmospheric combination of fantasy and reality, Michael Parkes’ work captures the magic of the unexpected. Often considered the world’s dominant Magical Realist artist, Parkes interweaves realism, symbolism and surrealism through his images. Originally a Kent State professor, Parkes left to pursue art, and extensively traveled the world to enrich his craft. After briefly painting Abstract Expressionist works, he realized he wanted to create startling effects by depicting images that defy reason and logic. Parkes is also a skilled sculptor, and adept at the challenging medium of color stone lithography.