J. Michael Howard

Born: Newport News, Virginia
Education: Norfolk State University, Fine Art, 1976
Pratt Institute, BS, Computer Science, 1981

J. Michael Howard, a Virginia native, is a graduate of a computer science program but is an artist at heart. Howard moved to New York with the intention of completing his studies in Fine Art, but was offered an opportunity to acquire a degree in computer science through a scholarship. Set on achieving the greater goal of attaining a good education, he set aside his passion for art to achieve that goal. Michael moved to Atlanta, Georgia where he works as a web content developer. But he has not forsaken his true passion, continuing to paint and to develop his skills as an artist. He has been painting and exhibiting his works nationally while working as a computer professional since 1990. Music has an intrinsic influence on his paintings and is a dominant theme in his works. Michael's original paintings and pastels are owned by corporate institutions and private collectors worldwide. His work can be found on permanent installation in the Comer Museum, in the Smithsonian Institute Traveling Exhibition for the book Seeing Jazz: Artists and Writers on Jazz. Michael currently teaches both traditional and computer art to children and seniors at facilities throughout metro Atlanta in the evenings. "I believe strongly in working with the community based institution whose mission is to promote music, visual art or youth development through education, community involvement or publications," states Howard. Over the years, Michael continues to contribute his talents and acquired skills to assist non-profit organizations, high school jazz bands, youth orchestras and clubs. He created the 1993 Atlanta Jazz Festival poster sponsored by the Atlanta Bureau of Cultural Affairs and Creative Loafing Urban News. In the commercial realm, Michael's work can be found on the covers of music CDs, books and magazines.

Publications and Reviews

· The Western Journal Of Black Studies, 1994: "Art and Jazz in Motion"
· Smithsonian Institute Traveling Exhibition: The Book, "Seeing Jazz"
· Creative Loafing Urban Newspaper 1993 Atlanta Jazz Festival Edition.
· Atlanta Museums & Galleries magazine: "Cool Notes" art review.
· International Musical Suppliers Catalog, Cover Art 1997 - present
· Band Directors Guide 1993 - 94

Associations

International Association of Jazz Educators, associate member

Exhibitions

International Association of Jazz Educators Conference
ArtExpo
National Black Arts Festival
New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival
National Black Caucus Convention