I am very excited, honored and proud that the PGA is using my painting as one of the posters for the 2016 Ryder Cup! The Ryder Cup is a golf tournament/competition between the U.S. and Europe. It takes place every two years rotating between a location in the U.S. and Europe. This year, in late September, it will be at Hazeltine Country Club near Minneapolis.
Over a year ago, I was approached by a member of the marketing team for the PGA to see if I had interest in painting a scene for the event. I looked at past paintings by other artists and thought this could be a really fun project. While the art is always excellent, most of it is pretty representational and straightforward - with the exception of LeRoy Neiman, of course. I felt I had the chance to really make it crazy and fun. I really wanted to capture the flavor of the crowd that comes from all over the world for this tournament.
LeRoy Neiman had always been associated with PGA events up until his death in 2012. Also a Saint Paul native, I felt inspired to create something more in realm. Lots of movement and color. Gigantic shoes to fill for sure!
I had a great time painting this piece. There are so many interesting characters and elements involved. I am so happy the PGA allowed me get as creative as I wanted for the painting. I feel like I captured the festive atmosphere of the Ryder Cup and will be thrilled to see it selling at the actual event in the fall.
The poster will be available later in July through PGA affiliated websites and stores. We will not be selling the poster on our site but we will be selling fine art canvas prints starting July 5th. The link will be posted when it is available.
Ok - let's play some golf!!
New art featuring LED lighting and some old school flat paintings on wood panels. All of this new work to kick off 20 years of Michael Birawer Paintings!
