"Kindness is always a masterpiece."

                                                                                    Author unknown

 

What if art could not only educate and inspire, but to a greater extent, raise immediate funds to eradicate a disease, assist disaster victims and provide assistance to any number of other causes?

  "His ability to translate the true meaning of our organization onto canvas was
amazing. The work he spontaneously created on stage of original art pieces made
the crowd go crazy. And drove fundraising dollars higher than ever before!”
- Sherrye McBryde, Executive Director,
The Susan G. Komen Brest Cancer Foundation, Arkansas

Its one thing to have incredible artistic talent, the ability to paint in a style both unique and intriguing all the while creating an elaborate spectacle. It is an even greater feat to be able to use that talent to reach others and touch them in a positive fashion.  While these attributes and capabilities are true for Michael Israel, it is not enough to entertain for the sheer pleasure of the experience.  It is not enough to revel in the financial reward and notoriety.  He has chosen a more difficult less traveled path and uses his artistic gifts and ability to evoke overwhelming feelings of empathy for others that extends beyond the customary avenues. He shares his good fortune and creative passion by focusing his energy where it can truly make a difference in the lives of others.

 Your concert at the Lemieux Celebrity Winners Circle party last Friay evening was unbelievable.
"WOW" was probably the most common reaction by all who attended. Your talent is nothing short
of fantastic. I was fortunate to have made the successful bid. I plan to donate the portrait to The
Children's Home of Pittsburgh for the grand opening of their new building early next year.
Thank you for the exciting event last Friday. - Sincerely, Anthony W. Liberati

Michael has performed for countless charities.  His involvement has evolved over the years as he has learned and grown from his involvement. Michael often reflects back to a particularly humbling time when, early in his career, his charitable contributions had taken on far more than his time and finances would allow. At a particularly low point, Israel suffered the loss of his studio and went broke.  A wiser man emerged from the experience equipped with the same strong commitment to his humanitarian efforts and impressively innovative programs to optimize each event.  His creative vision spills over into a bottom-line driven focus to secure sponsor dollars, obtain and maximize positive media and press, and increase event attendance and ticket sales.  His aid accomplishes these things by providing world-class entertainment with artwork that has commands hundreds of thousands in charitable support.

 I had the PLEASURE of meeting and talking with Michael Israel last night (as well as watching
him perform and bring in about $40,000 for the Mario Lemieux fundraiser in Pittsburgh with his
action paintings.........He's amazing and awesome and I THINK I might have talked him into coming
up for our mARTi Gras...........if he's available......
...He's truly the BEST I've ever seen...........What a way to bring down the house !!!
He's a great guy whose heart is in the right place........I was totally impressed with him
(and I don't get easily impressed anymore).............
- Michelee A. Curtze, Director of Federal, State & NonPublic School Services

The most obvious benefit to Michael's programs is the magnificent, inspirational art that is the end result of his performance.  His paintings are often pre-sold, and many are sold at auction for tens of thousands.  The list of private collectors continues to grow, with many buyers adding to their collections through donations dedicated to a specific charity.  An organization fortunate enough to be able to include Michael Israel's performance in their event quickly understands that his magic reaches much farther than symbolic imagery that tugs at the heart strings and wallets of its attendees.

 WHAT A BLAST!!!! Thank you so much for an incredible night.
Thank you again for all you have done to help the children of Unity School.
- Diane Shawcross, Director of Special Events, Unity School

Possibly it is Michael's innate ability to delve into each creation, through movement and music that delivers a message more profound than any still piece of imagery could begin to convey.  Passion for his work, and compassion for a cause fuse together for an energy that begs enlightenment and understanding on a new plateau.  To witness any of Michael Israel's programs is to surrender to the energy, the exhilaration, and the unmitigated emotion generated by his unique style.  One must only experience his performance to realize that it is an emotional odyssey like no other, the result of which is a newfound insight into that particular cause, and it touches each member of the audience on a personal level. 

 

Many of his signature pieces have become highly recognized, important images for a number of causes.  "Hero", is a 9/11 tribute depicting a firefighter rescuing a frightened child. "Legacy" has been referred to as the most beautiful, meaningful pink sneaker in the world.  Israel's beautiful, "Say Goodnight, Not Goodbye" is a poignant, tender Tsunami tribute that eases the trauma of loss with the idea that beauty if found in the life's darkest moments.  It reminds us that growth and rebirth are inevitable after devastation, and most of all, that love cannot be destroyed by nature's threats.  "65 Roses" portrays the heartwarming story of how Cystic Fibrosis came to be called "65 Roses".  "My Big Brother" signifies the tremendous significance and impact of a strong adult presence in the life of a child during the formative years.

 

Michael's performances raise awareness, goodwill, and funds on a grand scale.  Certainly, these achievements alone are the purpose in orchestrating such events and yet, through Michael's moving, compelling program, he reaches beyond the usual altruistic endeavors and reaches a little more deeply, clearly, and honestly on a more personal scope. 

 

Whether he is performing for Special Olympics, the American Red Cross, Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer Foundation, City of Hope, or countless other charitable organizations, one thing is certain, Michael Israel knows how to reach his audience, and he touches boldly, deeply, and succinctly.  His generosity and compassion are evident and make for a rewarding experience for all.

 My daughter and I performed the National Anthem yesterday at an event that you also performed.
We were so impressed with you and your talent. You are amazing! My daughter loves John
Lennon and his talent and she was thrilled when you painted the masterpiece of John. She
wanted it so bad! Just wanted you to know what an inspiration you were to us yesterday. I am
a voice teacher and have a huge vocal studio and what a blessing it was to have been with you
yesterday! God has blessed you with so many gifts! - Jill and Molly Brown, Sherman, Texas