We've lost an artist....
From Paul Richmond on Facebook:
I’m heartbroken to learn of the passing of one of my greatest art heroes - Michael J. Breyette. He was one of the first artists I discovered during the early days of exploring my sexuality, and I was instantly captivated by his exquisitely rendered pastel drawings. His work fused raw masculinity with tenderness and romanticism, creating a style that was unmistakably his own. I had never seen men portrayed that way before - it awakened something in me. Well, several things. One of them was the realization that my own desires and fantasies could be valid, powerful subjects for my art too.
I’ve always looked up to Michael as a role model - someone who knew exactly who he was, made the art he wanted to make, and found an audience who cherished it. His work radiated authenticity and joy. Over time, we became friends, and he was always warm, encouraging, and generous - never a trace of competitiveness. But why would there be? As far as I’m concerned, when it comes to male figurative art, Michael Breyette stands in a league of his own.
We’re lucky to own several of his pieces, and I even had the honor of painting his portrait for a show years ago. He was kind, sincere, sexy, and immensely talented. He made a lasting impact on me and countless others, and his legacy will live on through the extraordinary art he left behind.
You can see more of his work here: https://gayety.com/michael-j-breyette-illustrations-of-gay-intimacy-by