About the Artist

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Michael Edward Kensinger was born on May 25th, 1984 as the first-born son of Michael D. Kensinger, and Leslie A. Kensinger.  Though he was born in Lawton Oklahoma, at Fort Sill Military Base, Michael's parents were central Pennsylvania natives, and brought him back "home" to Pennsylvania when he was still an infant. Nine years later, his brother Tyler A. Kensinger would be born, completing the family.

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Exploring the forests, hills, and fields of central Pennsylvania with his family, it wasn't long until Michael began replicating his experiences with a pencil and paper through drawings.  The would-be artist also enjoyed writing and inspired by the work of late artists/writers Ned Smith and Bob Sopchick, began honing his abilities to follow in the footsteps of his heroes.  In addition, Kensinger began taking photos, collecting books, and asking important questions that would lead him to better understand the world around him.

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With no formal training, or college degree, Kensinger worked tirelessly at expanding his knowledge.  College was unaffordable for him, but he plowed onward, surrounding himself with the people who could help him on his way.  By his 10th grade in High School, Kensinger received his first job as a published artist by drawing a cardinal for Mark Nale's column "Naturally Speaking" in the Tyrone Daily Herald.  Nale would continue to use Kensinger's work for a couple years and played a critical role in getting Kensinger enrolled as an active member of the prestigious Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association.

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In 2021, Kensinger achieved a life-long goal by becoming the winner of the Pennsylvania Waterfowl Management Stamp design contest, held by the PA Game Commission.  The PGC purchased the painting for $4,000 and 150 artist proof prints were awarded to the artist.  From there, collectable conservation stamps were made.  The Pennsylvania "Duck Stamp" program has saved over 5,000 acres of wetland throughout the commonwealth. 

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After joining the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association in 2022, Michael was quick to utilize the group for its connection to all sorts of professional outdoor communicators. It was there that he landed jobs with Pennsylvania Outdoor News, Pennsylvania Wildlife Magazine, and PA Boater & Angler.  At the 2023 conference, Kensinger's painting "Grape-patch Grouse" took first place in the "WILDLIFE ART AWARD", and he was honored with a plaque, and cash prize. 

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When asked what he hopes to achieve with his art, Kensinger replied, "I want people to walk away from my painting with an appreciation of nature.  If you can stir respect for those things, people will fight to preserve them for generations to come.  That's what I hope my work achieves, even after I'm gone."

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