Chicago native Michael Bonfiglio is a self-taught artist. He began paintingin 1988 after having worked as a figure model at Illinois State University. His exposure to artists and the creative process compelled Bonfiglio to create artwork of his own. He began exhibiting his work in 1992. Throughout the 1990s, Bonfiglio focused on developing his unique style of painting.

In 2001, Bonfiglio opened Gallery Bonfiglio, Inc. in Andersonville, on
Chicago's north side. The gallery serves as both a studio and showroom for the artist. One can often find Bonfiglio painting in the display window of his gallery. By creating art in such a public way, Bonfiglio is able to engage and connect with countless passersby. Michael has also gained respect in the art community and has partnered with a host of philanthropic organizations.

His work is intense and intricate with a flourishing use of color. Looking
at his gallery, his work is colorful and always fresh. BOI Magazine had the great opportunity to ask Michael a few questions.

BOI: What made you decide to set up your studio and gallery in Andersonville?
MB: Back in 2000, my mother was living in a nursing home in the
Andersonville area. I sought a space that would be close to her.

BOI: Who gives you inspiration?
MB: God.

BOI: As a grant panelist what do you look for in a recipient?
MB: When reviewing grant applications, I focus heavily on the mission of the applicant, as well as, the steps that need to be taken to achieve the end goal.

BOI: In a perfect world where do you see yourself in 10 years?
MB: Running my Fortune 500 Dot Empire!!

BOI: What was the picture you gave to Hillary Clinton and why that
particular picture?
MB: I gave Senator Clinton a "Baby Bonfiglio". The piece was a small
acrylic painting. I gave her that one, because I thought it would be easy to travel with.

BOI: What direction is your work currently going in and what are you working on now?
MB: My work is going in many different exciting directions. Artist Zack Stiglitz and I are collaborating on my first video project. I just finished dotting a doghouse for the Anti-Cruelty Society and a birdhouse for
Chicago House. I'm just about to start a collection of dotted dildos. In
addition to all my dotted art, I've been working on a series of paintings
that have no or very few dots, which is fun and challenging!

BOI: Michael, what's next for you?
MB: Upcoming, artist Lee K will be displaying a Bubblehead of me, at
Batteries Not Included, in August. In November, I will have an exhibit of my work at the Gerber/Hart Library. And very soon I will be launching
WildDot.com, my new cyber-gallery, designed by plusorange.com.

There you have it, an Andersonville Icon. Michael is a man of few words with a colorful future. So next time you are in Andersonville, his gallery is located at: 5408 North Clark Street Chicago, Illinois 60640
Hours: Monday - Friday: By appointment Saturday and Sunday: 12 - 5pm.