As a representational painter, Shawn Michael Warren believes that the traditions and the philosophies of the Old Masters of previous centuries should be upheld and passed on. From youth, Warren was captivated by the beautiful and sublime works created by artists such as Bouguereau, Sargent, Thayer, Vernet, Charles White and Kerry James Marshall. Warren knew early on that he wanted to pursue painting as a life profession. He received his BFA in Painting from the American Academy of Art, as well as having the rare opportunity to study at the Florence Academy of Art in Italy, to further develop his skills in drawing and painting.
As a black artist, living in a turbulent American society, Warren’s intent is to create narrative works of art that represent those that are underrepresented in the art world. From unknown parts of history to contemporary topics, his work is used as a means to educate, ignite thought-provoking conversations about societal issues that plague us as a collective people and evoke empathy, compassion and beauty. Although there have been noticeable changes in the art world in regards to diversity, the representation of artists of color is still on a slow uphill climb. Warren’s vision is to contribute to that continued change in the art world. Warren’s work brings attention and awareness to events and individuals (past and present) that have affected and shaped cultures and civilizations throughout the world. His most notable creation, In a Promised Land . . . , received critical acclaim for bringing life to the tragic history of the Greenwood Community in early 1920s Tulsa, Oklahoma, home to the wealthiest black community in America: “The sublime beauty of Warren’s painting style combined with the absence of blood and gore makes the subject matter accessible, so that people linger and look closely at the scene of destruction and emotional upheaval” (Kate Lewis, in the Rapidian).
Through narrative painting, Warren depicts these subjects in a way that captures the attention of the viewer and triggers empathy as well as the need to learn and fully understand the story behind its imagery.
His work has been featured in a number of media outlets and publications including, FOX News, ABC7, The New York Times, The LA Times and New American Paintings.
