Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael J. Bingham.
Hi Michael J., please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
You can learn a lot about me. And my organization by watching the PBS news hour Feature. Find it by going to my website. JumptheMoon.org
and clicking on the PBS newshour button at the top of the page.
I have been a professional artist for over forty two years. I hold a master’s degree in painting a drawing from Utah State University. I obtained a bachelor’s of fine arts degree in illustration from art center college of design in Pasadena, California.
I worked for 12 years as an artist at Hallmark cards. In Kansas City, I taught high school art for almost 12 years.
during that time that I found great joy in. Teaching art especially to special needs students. I started my nonprofit as a way to have a place to spend more time and energy developing artistic abilities especially among those who have Physical and cognitive challenges.
We have now been a nonprofit for 8 years, And made it possible for many, many people to find their own creative outlet.
I am married to the beautiful Suzanne. We have seven children and twelve grandchildren, and two cats, benjamin and franklin.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
A smooth road sounds like it would be really boring! Ours hasn’t even been a road. It’s been a rollercoaster.
Our greatest challenge by far is finding continuing sources for funding. We are so fortunate that many good people have seen what we do. And stepped forward with the desire to help us continue.
One hugh obstacle occurred around seven years ago when I fell twenty feet onto my head broke my neck in seven places, fractured my skull and almost died.
You can find a news story that cover that event by googling KSL news slash. Michael Bingham, the story is titled “Artist puts a paintbrush on a wheelchair and a rocket on a cow”
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have discovered that my mission in life is to help others find and develop their own ability and creativity..
In my own lengthy career I believe i’ve made well over two thousand works of art in a wide range. of styles, mediums and techniques.
Early on, I was very blessed to have some wonderful mentors who saw ability in me and helped me find my own place in the world of art.
I strive now to be that mentor for other people.
Often, that requires me to become very inventive and find ways to help individuals overcome the physical and cognitive challenges that make typical. art making difficult.
I still continue to make an exhibit my own art, Because I think it’s important to be a role model who actually works as an artist.
I don’t know if this sets me apart from others. But I have a tremendous love for people, And an ability to visualize myself in their position, I also have the patience and tennasity to see every failed attempt as a learning opportunity. And keep going until a good solution is achieved.
What’s next?
Many people find Jump the Moon art studio to be their happy place. A place that is safe and peaceful. Where creativity is not judged but encouraged, not impossible but made accessible for everyone no, matter what sort of life challenge they may be.
Living with.
My dream is that In the future. I hope there is a way to create many more studios like this, In other locations around the world. So that many, many more people can experience the joy of creating.
Pricing:
- There is a suggested $6 donation per visit to Jump the Moon. This will help us cover the cost of art supplies.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://JumptheMoon.org
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/jumpthemoonfoundation
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/jumpthemoonfoundation
