“All subjects intrigue and inspire me, from the majestic to the commonplace: high mountain scenes to pebbles in a stream, animals and people, sea and sky, and everything in between. I am forever determined to comprehend and describe the confluent energy patterns of nature which work to bind seemingly disparate elements into one homogeneous whole. Nature is the master artist, and I merely an apprentice.” F. Michael Wood was born in San Francisco in 1944. Preoccupied with drawing and painting since early childhood, he received his fine arts degree after extensive training both here and abroad. His artistry is the result of a lifetime absorbed in the gamut of visual arts disciplines. He has established a fluency in styles and techniques ranging from classical to contemporary. Michael is a signature member of Oil Painters of America and has been featured on the cover of Southwest Art Magazine May 2002 issue. His work has been published in 100 Ways to Paint People and Figures, International Artists, 2004. From 1989 to 2004 Michael has been included in the Top 100 and Top 200 “Arts for the Parks” national exhibition in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. His work has also been regularly included in the Salon International of the International Museum of Contemporary Masters. F. Michael Wood was an award winner for his painting “Trilogy” in Raymar’s 2007 National Artists competition and also in 2008 for his portrait “Looking Back.”