Statement by Allan Michael, Maritime Captain & Fine Art Photographer

Aesthetic Realism has encouraged me to see more richly the value of my African-American heritage and in turn I care more for all people, including people of my own race. I now have even greater pride in being an African-American man. As a wonderful result, my wife, 4 of my colleagues, and I have spoken at colleges and learning institutions across New York City on how racism can end through the study of Aesthetic Realism. In addition, I have been published on the subject in journals across the country.

As to education and interests other than at the Aesthetic Realism Foundation:

Well, to say Aesthetic Realism does not encourage study outside of the Aesthetic Realism Foundation is pure hogwash. In fact, in Aesthetic Realism consultations I was encouraged to go to Maritime school so that I could go from a job as a deckhand to my present job as a captain. Proudly, I have been a maritime captain for the past 18 years. On the subject of not being "allowed" to participate in things outside of Aesthetic Realism: I belong to 3 car clubs, in which I participate in club outings; a golf club; a home theatre group; and art organizations. I am a member of the Organization of Independent Artists (OIA), and have had my photographs shown at many venues. I am extremely grateful to the late Aesthetic Realism Consultant and great photographer Nancy Starrels because through her class, The Honoring Eye, my respect for my subjects and photography got deeper, and continues to today.

As to the Family:

My earlier sullen relationship with my father now actually is a very good relationship—where when we talk we try to have a good effect on each other and question each other with kindness. To say persons who study Aesthetic Realism are not ‘allowed’ to travel is so far from the truth. My wife and I annually travel to Florida to visit her parents. We also like to travel, at times with friends, to many places in eastern America. My life has changed so much and I feel everyone should have the right to the truth about Aesthetic Realism.