"My paintings are done in oil on canvas with multiple layers of glaze. The intention is to achieve a translucent and brilliant jewel-like color that reflects landscape at its most mystical moment. The landscapes are inspired by and reflect centuries of occupancy from Neolithic to modern times. The paintings make no attempt to capture a specific moment. Rather, they reflect a sense of continuous historical, aesthetic and mystical purpose, an artistic statement which is a harmonious mark upon the land."

Commenting on techniques and content of some of his work in Ireland, Mr. Aakhus wrote: "All the elements of this place: the stones, the trees, the elevated view of the sea had been shared by successive groups of people inhabiting that ground. As I stood there, my sequential perception of history seemed trivial. What became important was man's shared aesthetic insight across time and its coexistence with nature. The language and modes of writing on stones were all different, but the profound sense of artistic kinship shared by these simple monuments became one with my own. My paintings are an attempt to give visual form to these insights."

Whether in Ireland, Central or South America, Michael Aakhus involves himself with the surroundings with such insight that his work seems to belong to the here, the now, the was, the is, and the never will be. His universality of observation seems to make each painting be a part of the here and the now, the present, the past, the future.

Educated in Art and History at Bemidji State University, with a Master of Fine Arts at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, Aakhus is a University Professor of Art teaching painting, drawing, printmaking, design and visual arts.

Many awards, fellowships and grants have made possible his distinguished career which is now evident in collections and exhibitions in Los Angeles and New York as well as Museums in Minnesota, New Mexico, Indiana and Illinois and in many major corporate collections throughout the country.