Artist Biography
Born in Highland Park, Michigan, Johnny "Bee" Badanjek, started drawing around six or seven years old. His mother worked at the the GM Tech Center. The designers there would give her colored pencils and paints to Badanjek and his brother to use in their art endeavors. Initially this self-taught artist planned to attend art school but was sidetracked for the last 45 years with the music business. His successful career as a drummer has placed Badanjek with Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels. Edgar Winter, Alice Cooper, The Romantics, The Rockets, Dr. John and Nils Lofgren just to name a few.
Badanjek says of his own work: "I paint from the unconciousness it's the same as song writing. My new art leans more towards abstract expressionism and action painting. I consider myself a contemporary modernist painter. Which all that means is you're painting contemporary society in todays age." Some of his fine art influences include Van Gogh, Delacroix, Gorky, DeKooning, Pollack, and Joan Mitchell.
Artist Statement
Art chose me at a very early age. As a descendant from a very passionate lineage, my people were known for their expressiveness. My first inclination to the artistic form was musical in nature. To me, melody and rhythm are akin to breathing and consuming oxygen. As I progressed in my career as a musician, I never saw myself as a sideman in a top rock band ever. I am proud to say that I always carried myself and my craft as an artist. Coming from Detroit, Michigan and being exposed to the multi-cultural musical taboo that was commonplace to this town, I was witnessed to some of the greatest musical artistry and brilliance the likes this world has not yet recovered from. It was at the ripe age of nine that I made the conscious decision to dedicate my life to the pursuit of artistry. However, unbeknownst to me, I didnt realize that this artistry would encompass more that melodic and rhythmic endeavor. My authentic pursuit of artistic freedom brought me to drawing and painting and a deep appreciation for this encompassing art form. With all of my lifes experiences I transitioned naturally into a free painter with endless ideas and exuberance for life! I found that I had the same deep passion for painting that I found music. In fact, I found that the two inspire each other. Art is the language that I use to express the authentic passion that flows through my veins. This is clearly exhibited by my vision, my dreams, and imaginary world that subconsciously influence and guide my artwork to completion. In fact, I have no preconceived notion where my visions, dreams and imaginary world take my artistic expression. It is this trust that I place in these three elements that have set me totally free.
Artist Website
Visit this artist's website.
Selected Works
|
The Late Stages of Life Color Pencil on Paper (14" x 17") | $1,800 |
|
The Dark Dreams of Picasso Color Pencil on Paper(14" x 17") | $1,800 |
|
Osmosis Color Pencil on Paper (24" X 36") | $1,800 |
|
The Bishops Broken Heart Color Pencil on Paper (30" x 40") | $2,800 |
|
Hipsters with Black Moon Pastel on Paper (24" x 36") |
|
|
Canoes Pastel on Paper (14" x 17") | $1,200 |
|
Wheatfields with Crows Oil on Paper (4' x 8') | $6,800 |
Originals on the this page may be sold. Please call (734) 246-9800 or Contact Us for availability.
Back to Featured Artists.