Saranac Lake native featured in next Artists Guild exhibit

SARANAC LAKE | Michael Burpoe will be the featured artist at the Adirondack Artists Guild for the month of November with "HERE," a solo exhibition featuring 25 original watercolor paintings celebrating the culture of Saranac Lake. Born and raised in Saranac Lake, Michael creates Adirondack culture paintings both en plein air and in-studio. He signs his work with his middle name, Czerny, a nod to the original spelling of his grandfather's name, which was changed when he immigrated from Poland. Michael studied Graphic Design at RIT's College of Imaging Arts and Sciences, graduating summa cum laude in 2017. The Saranac Lake area is truly unique. The farther Michael travels, the more he realizes that what's found here cannot easily be found elsewhere. While many of his contemporaries and visiting artists focus on the stunning landscapes and world-class foliage, Michael is drawn to capture the people and culture that make this place one-of-a-kind. People who dance in the rain, paddle rivers before the ice recedes, or dress up goat statues just to amuse passersby—these are the people of the North Country who inspire his work. In May, Michael painted the newest mural in town at 60–62 Broadway, with the support of Jimmy and Johnny Williams and the help of friends and family. The mural depicts Adirondack legends Verplanck Colvin and Mills Blake surveying what would later become Saranac Lake. This project helped cement Michael's role in the local arts scene and contributed to him being awarded Best Artist in the Adirondack Daily Enterprise's 2025 Best of the Mountains. Michael believes that the imperfections of a painting tell a story better than a photograph ever could. Each year, he partners with local groups and events to create illustrations that raise funds or awareness for beloved traditions. He has collaborated with the Lawn Chair Ladies, the Ice Palace Workers (IPW-101), and continues to celebrate community events such as Dewey Dubs, Party on the Patio, and the Northern Current Music Festival—sometimes painting live, always dancing. Michael joined the Adirondack Artists Guild in January 2025, where he now maintains a rotating installation of his work. He hopes to bring youthful energy and fresh perspective to their lauded ranks. "HERE" will be on exhibit from Nov. 7 through Dec. 1, with an opening reception at the gallery on Friday, Nov. 7 from 5 - 8 p.m. Beverages will be provided courtesy of Hex & Hops Brewing, with appearances by some very special guests. All are welcome. The Adirondack Artists Guild is a cooperative retail art gallery representing a diverse group of artists residing and working in the Tri-Lakes region of the Adirondack Park. The gallery is located at 52 Main St., Saranac Lake. Phone: 518-891-2615. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday 11 - 5 and Sundays 11 - 3. The Guild is on Facebook, Instagram, and on the web at www.adirondackartistsguild.com.

Signup for our newsletter

Saranac Lake native featured in next Artists Guild exhibit

COMPANY

CUSTOMER SUPPORT

SUBMISSION FORMS

BEYOND THE NEWS