For Michael Craft, the greatest reward of making art is not an award or exhibition. It is discovering that someone connected deeply enough with his work to bring it into their life.
“Finally, nothing compares to the feeling of selling a piece of artwork,” Craft said. “Knowing that someone connects with my work enough to bring it into their life is one of the greatest rewards an artist can experience.”
Craft, 56, is a gay photographer and artist living in Tamarac. His creative life has included awards at art shows, organizing a long-running art group with a high school friend and helping open a gallery after moving to South Florida. Becoming one of that gallery’s resident artists has been a career highlight.
His identity naturally informs the work he creates. Craft photographs many subjects, but much of his art explores homoerotic themes and LGBTQ experiences. He is interested in images that tell stories and examine ideas, rather than simply documenting what appears before the camera.
“My identity has given me a perspective that naturally finds its way into my art,” he said.
Craft also uses photography to address injustice and respond to the political climate. He believes art can begin difficult conversations, confront prejudice and celebrate people who live authentically.
For Craft, being out and proud means living honestly and refusing to fear who he is. Visibility is especially important for young people who may be struggling to come out and need proof that they are not alone.
“I hope your coming out story is an easy one, but if it isn't, don't lose sight of who you are,” Craft said. “Stay true to yourself and remember that being LGBTQ+ is not a mistake and isn't something that needs to be fixed.”
One of Craft’s most personal projects is “Sweet Tooth,” a self-published coffee table book combining photography, baking and men. The book pairs male models with desserts and includes the recipe for every featured treat. Craft created the photographs, developed the recipes and designed the book himself.
“It was a true labor of love and one of the most rewarding creative projects I've completed,” he said.
Whether his work is playful, political or macabre, Craft wants it to communicate. His personal motto reflects the respect he brings to that exchange: “My time is as valuable as yours.”
