the collector's folio

Michael Parkes Most Popular Paintings

The 25 artworks by Michael Parkes our visitors look at most, ranked by popularity and presented one by one.

Edition 2026 · 25 artworks Each artwork painted to order
Linen canvas · Certificate of authenticity · Delivered worldwide Michael Parkes · born 1944

Tuesday's Child - Michael Parkes (2026)

2026

Discover 'Tuesday's Child' by Michael Parkes – a surreal acrylic masterpiece, 76x104cm, now available at WikiOO.org. Own this iconic wall art and elevate your space today.

View the most popular artwork of Michael Parkes ranked #1: Tuesday's Child - Michael Parkes

Art Movement: Surrealism
Color Palette: Neutrals

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Gift of wonder, Michael Parkes

Discover "Gift of Wonder" by Michael Parkes – a mesmerizing fantasy painting blending Renaissance detail with ethereal beauty. Explore intricate textures & symbolism in this captivating artwork.

View the most popular artwork of Michael Parkes ranked #2: Gift of wonder

Art Movement: Other
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 2 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Dante

Discover Michael Parkes’ stunning art! Explore intricate fantasy paintings like 'Dante,' showcasing spiritual themes & detailed realism. A unique investment for art lovers.

Art Movement: Contemporary Realism
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 3 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Beatrice by Michael Parkes

View the most popular artwork of Michael Parkes ranked #4: Beatrice

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 4 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Night and Day

Color Palette: Neutrals

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 5 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Sacred fireII

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 6 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17739 × 25 cm Commission this artwork

Sacred fireI – Michael Parkes

View the most popular artwork of Michael Parkes ranked #7: Sacred fireI

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 7 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17740 × 25 cm Commission this artwork

Wien, Michael Parkes

Explore Michael Parkes’ ‘Wien’! A surreal digital painting blending figuration & abstraction in warm tones. Art Nouveau influence, intricate details, and a captivating dreamlike quality.

View the most popular artwork of Michael Parkes ranked #8: Wien

Art Movement: Art Nouveau
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 8 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17726 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

Aditi

Explore Michael Parkes’ ‘Aditi,’ a surreal masterpiece blending Egyptian & Art Deco motifs. A majestic figure atop ancient architecture, adorned with an ibis – a captivating fantasy artwork.

Art Movement: Surrealism
Color Palette: Neutrals

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 9 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17726 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

Morning

Color Palette: Neutrals

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 10 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Sphinx, Michael Parkes

View the most popular artwork of Michael Parkes ranked #11: Sphinx

Color Palette: Neutrals

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 11 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17737 × 27 cm Commission this artwork

Cleopatra

Color Palette: Metallics

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 12 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17737 × 27 cm Commission this artwork

Cover

Color Palette: Neutrals

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 13 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Running the golden salamander

Color Palette: Neutrals

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 14 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

An angels touch

Color Palette: Pastels

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 15 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Broken Promises

Color Palette: Neutrals

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 16 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

Almost fallen angelsI

Color Palette: Neutrals

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 17 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Explore Michael Parkes’ ‘Rainbow Sphinx,’ a surreal digital painting blending classical & fantasy art. A muscular nude figure meets a winged sphinx in warm tones, evoking ancient myth and modern allure.

View the most popular artwork of Michael Parkes ranked #18: Rainbow sphinx

Art Movement: Surrealism
Color Palette: Pastels

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 18 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Angel that stops time – Michael Parkes

View the most popular artwork of Michael Parkes ranked #19: Angel that stops time

Color Palette: Neutrals

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 19 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17726 × 39 cm Commission this artwork

Almost fallen angelsII by Michael Parkes

Explore Michael Parkes’ ‘Almost Fallen Angels II,’ a surreal digital painting featuring an ethereal figure & avian embrace. Dreamlike art with classical influences – captivating fantasy & magic realism.

View the most popular artwork of Michael Parkes ranked #20: Almost fallen angelsII

Art Movement: Surrealism
Color Palette: Neutrals

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 20 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Last circus – Michael Parkes

View the most popular artwork of Michael Parkes ranked #21: Last circus

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 21 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17737 × 27 cm Commission this artwork

Little General

Discover "Little General" by Michael Parkes – a captivating stone lithograph blending surrealism & satire. Explore this magical realism artwork, perfect for collectors seeking unique, elegant pieces. Hand-painted reproductions available at WikiOO!

Art Movement: Surrealism
Color Palette: Pastels

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 22 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Khensu

Color Palette: Pastels

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 23 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Angel affair

Color Palette: Neutrals

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 24 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Ballet mistress

Discover 'Ballet Mistress' by Michael Parkes – a whimsical illustration blending fantasy & realism. Explore this enchanting piece featuring a ballerina, swan, & eccentric old man in pen & ink.

Art Movement: Illustration
Color Palette: Neutrals

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 25 of 59 artworks by Michael Parkes
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17726 × 39 cm Commission this artwork

The artist

Michael Parkes

born 1944

Quick facts

Color intensityvivid, balanced
Art periodModern
Corpus themesgrace
Movementssurrealism
Copyright statusUnder copyright
Born1944, Sikeston, United States of America
Also known asHarry Samuel Parks

Biography

A Journey into the Realms of Imagination

Born in 1944 in Sikeston, Missouri, Michael Parkes emerged as a truly unique and visionary voice in contemporary art—a master seamlessly blending fantasy, spirituality, and technical brilliance. From his earliest years, Parkes displayed an exceptional aptitude for artistic expression, excelling in drawing, painting, and sculpture; a foundation built upon formal training at the University of Kansas and later refined at the University of California, Berkeley. However, his path wasn’t one of immediate stylistic certainty. Initially drawn to the prevailing Abstract Expressionism of his teachers, Parkes soon embarked on a profound personal journey that would irrevocably shape his artistic vision. This pivotal moment involved a deliberate stepping away from art itself—a quest for philosophical enlightenment undertaken in India. It was within this ancient and spiritually rich landscape that he discovered the wellspring of inspiration that would define his life’s work, a connection he continues to nurture with annual visits alongside his wife, drawing constant renewal from its traditions.

The Alchemy of Influences and Magical Realism

Parkes' artistic development wasn’t solely a product of personal introspection; it was deeply informed by a diverse range of historical and cultural influences. He reveres the Renaissance masters—Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo—for their anatomical precision and masterful compositions, while acknowledging the surrealist provocations of Salvador Dalí. Yet, his work transcends mere imitation, forging its own distinct identity within the genre of Magical Realism. This style, characterized by a meticulous depiction of reality interwoven with fantastical or dreamlike elements, became Parkes’ signature. His imagery is steeped in symbolism drawn from esoteric traditions—Cabalistic and Tantric philosophies—adding layers of meaning that invite contemplation on deeper spiritual concepts. The artist himself describes consciousness as “a laboratory to explore the physicality of evolution,” a sentiment profoundly reflected in his art's exploration of transformation and interconnectedness. This philosophical underpinning elevates his work beyond mere aesthetic appeal, inviting viewers into a realm where the boundaries between the seen and unseen blur. He doesn’t simply paint what *is*, but what *could be*, what lies just beneath the surface of our perceived reality.

Metamorphosis and Symbolism: The Language of Parkes' Art

At the heart of Michael Parkes’ artistic universe lies the theme of metamorphosis—the transformation of forms. His paintings are populated by ethereal beings, hybrid creatures, and scenes that defy conventional reality, creating a world where anything seems possible. These aren’t simply flights of fancy; they are carefully constructed visual narratives laden with symbolic meaning. Winged figures represent aspiration and transcendence, while animalistic forms embody primal instincts and hidden energies. The interplay between light and shadow, often dramatic and theatrical, further enhances the sense of mystery and intrigue. Parkes doesn't merely depict these subjects; he imbues them with a palpable sense of life and emotion. He works across multiple mediums—painting, stone lithography, and sculpture—but is particularly renowned for his skill in creating limited-edition Giclée prints, known as Aurographics, which capture the intricate detail and luminous quality of his original work. His style is characterized by precision, a harmonious blend of classical techniques with contemporary sensibilities, and an unwavering commitment to exploring the depths of human consciousness. The Three Graces, for example—a painting prominently featured in Dan Brown’s *The Lost Symbol*—is not merely a beautiful depiction of mythological figures but a complex allegory inviting layers of interpretation.

Recognition and Enduring Legacy

Michael Parkes’ artistic vision has resonated far beyond the confines of the art world. He has exhibited extensively throughout Europe and the United States, with solo exhibitions in major cities like Amsterdam, Basel, New York, and Denmark. His work has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following among collectors and enthusiasts alike. A sculpture titled Angel Affair graced the cover of a Dutch Fine Arts Magazine, while his paintings have served as inspiration for contemporary dance choreography by Lisa Starry of Scorpius Dance Theater—a testament to the power of his imagery to transcend artistic boundaries. Perhaps most notably, *The Three Graces* sparked widespread public interest and prompted an interview with Parkes regarding the painting's symbolism. Even the world of fashion has acknowledged his influence; milliner Justin Smith cited Parkes’ lithographs as inspiration for a headpiece worn by Angelina Jolie in the 2014 film Maleficent. These instances demonstrate that Parkes is not simply an artist, but a cultural touchstone—a visionary whose work continues to inspire and captivate audiences across diverse fields. He stands as a leading figure in magical realism, inviting viewers to explore the boundless realms of imagination and contemplate the mysteries of existence. His enduring legacy lies in his ability to remind us that within the ordinary, extraordinary possibilities reside, waiting to be unveiled through the power of art.

A Continued Exploration

Parkes’ continued dedication to his craft, coupled with his ongoing exploration of philosophical and spiritual themes, ensures his place as a significant figure in contemporary art. He has received awards from the Association of Science Fiction & Fantasy Artists (ASFA), recognizing his exceptional cover illustrations. His work continues to be exhibited internationally, attracting new admirers and solidifying his reputation as a master of magical realism.

His paintings are held in numerous private collections worldwide.
He remains actively engaged in creating new works across various mediums.
Parkes’ influence can be seen in the work of contemporary artists exploring similar themes of fantasy and spirituality.

Michael Parkes is more than an artist; he is a storyteller, a philosopher, and a visionary who invites us to question our perceptions and embrace the magic that lies within ourselves and the world around us.

Questions & Answers

Where are Michael Parkes's artworks grouped by palette?

The By Palettes page groups Michael Parkes's artworks by their color palettes.

How many artworks by Michael Parkes are available to browse?

You can browse 59 artworks by Michael Parkes on the All Artworks page.

Can I browse Michael Parkes's works by movement?

Michael Parkes's works can be browsed by movement on the artist's All Movements page.

By the WikiOO.org Editorial Team Updated Oct. 2, 2026

Collector's quiz

Where was Michael Parkes born?
What pivotal experience led to a significant shift in Parkes' artistic vision?
Parkes’ work is often categorized within which genre?
Which novel prominently features one of Parkes' paintings, sparking increased public interest in his work?
Besides painting and sculpture, what other medium is Parkes known for creating limited-edition prints in?

one You choose the size

Standard formats or any custom dimension, matched to the proportions of the original.

two We paint and send a preview

A photo of the finished canvas for your approval before it is shipped.

three Delivered, certified

Rolled, stretched or framed, insured, with a certificate of authenticity.

Commission your Michael Parkes

Every artwork by Michael Parkes in our catalog can be painted to order, in the size that suits the room.

All artworks by Michael Parkes