who is canman?
Well, I’m Canman (Mike Cannistraro), a fine artist, illustrator, and tattooist based in the suburbs of Boston, Massachusetts. My work explores the interplay between light and shadow to achieve explosive color, all the while blurring the lines between imagination and reality or genius and utter nonsense. Through my art, I aim to share a unique perspective, evoke emotions, and tell stories that resonate deeply with viewers.
My creative journey began as a child secretly drawing on the walls behind my mother’s living room sofa. Self taught, I’ve honed my skills over the years through continuing education, workshops, commitment and discipline.
I primarily work with oil / acrylic paints and digital tools, drawing inspiration from nature, music, literature, film and life experiences. My process often involves formulating the conceptual ideas, preliminary sketches or thumbnails, then experimenting with use of traditional or contemporary techniques.
When I’m not in the studio, you can find me hiking local trails, loitering at music venues, world traveling, or tattooing at my custom studio, Visions Tattoo, Piercing & Art Gallery in Medway, MA.
Thank you for visiting my site. I invite you to explore my portfolio, connect with me on social media, or reach out for collaborations, commissions, or just to say hello friend.
EDUCATION:
2004 - Michael Hussar painting workshop New York,NY
2006 - Alex grey art intensive Rhinebeck, NY
2006 - Painting & color theory, Dansforth Museum Framingham, MA
2006 - Chet Zar painting workshop Albuquerque, NM
2007 - Old masters oil techniques workshop. Vienna, Austria
2008-2009 - Illustration master class Amherst, MA
2009 - Casey Baugh oil portrait workshop Framingham, MA
2016 - Boris Vallejo & Julie Bell oil painting intensive Venice, Italy
2019,2023,2024 - Alex & Allyson Grey visionary painting intensive Wappingers Falls, NY
AWARDS & GRANTS: 2019 - Massachusetts Cultural Council art grant “ Medway community farm mural project”.
ARTIST STATEMENT:
My artistic practice is grounded in daily exploration, self reflection, and mindfulness. I embrace experimentation with various mediums, techniques, and styles, seeing mistakes as opportunities for growth rather than failure. At the heart of my work is the pursuit of bliss. I’ve experienced that life’s suffering can be mitigated through positive practices, such as art and music, which bring joy to both the creator and observer. Through my art, I aim to share this sense of bliss with others.
“MAKE ART, NOT EXCUSES! ”