After graduating from Law School in 1986, Michael Gelen realized that he had no particular interest in the legal profession and suspected that the feeling was mutual. He decided to pursue a lifelong interest in illustration and design and began a career in the graphic arts. After working at a newspaper and an ad agency, he founded Inkwell Studios in 1989. As a commissioned illustrator, he has worked for many local and national clients, most notably Buffalo's Irish Classical Theatre Company.

While Mr. Gelen works in a number of different styles, he is especially drawn to the art of the 1930s and 40s, in particular Art Deco and Streamline poster art. He's especially drawn to the sense of optimism that pervades these vintage posters, and the wonderful balance of sophistication and whimsy. He's attempted to bring this sensibility to a recent series of prints celebrating Buffalo's cultural and architectural heritage.

Mr. Gelen's works begin with pencil sketches and are finished digitally. His website is www.inkwellstudios.com/indexa.html.