American Abstract artist Tim Yanke was born in Detroit and is the youngest of six siblings. His parents encouraged and noted his artistic talents at a very young age. Yanke attended the University of North Texas in Denton where he completed his studies in art and received his Bachelor’s degree in 1986. Upon graduation, he took a job with a local marketing company where he began to hone his artistic skills and his graphic design background. He started working for Ameritech Advertising services as a Graphic designer in 1990, where he began to establish and develop his fine art skills in abstract painting. Yanke readily recognizes the influence of the great abstract painters like Willem deKooning, Robert Motherwell, Jackson Pollock, Wassily Kadinsky and Cy Twombly. He has no preconception when he works and develops his imagery spontaneously. He focuses on a bright color palette to attract the viewer and impart a pleasing visual effect to his highly energetic imagery. Yanke currently resides in Michigan with his wife and two sons.
Artist Gallery
Born
Tim Yanke is born in Detroit, the youngest of six siblings.
Becomes Interested in American Southwest
Yanke’s fascination with Southwest America begins to take hold during visits to see his sister at Northern Arizona University. His parents encourage him to pursue his artistic inklings.
Yanke Loses His Sister
Yanke’s sister passes away, further deepening his love for the Southwest as a reminder of her.
First Exhibition
Yanke has his first exhibition at the age of 23, selling 23 of the 26 exhibited paintings.
Receives Bachelor of Fine Arts
Yanke receives a bachelor of fine arts from the University of North Texas. Upon graduating, he opens a studio.
Develops Artistic Skills as a Graphic Designer
Yanke further develops his artistic skills as a graphic designer for Ameritech Advertising. He works for 18 years before becoming a full-time abstract painter.
Becomes a Full-Time Artist for Park West Gallery
Yanke signs on as a full-time artist with Park West Gallery, painting in his 1,200 square-foot studio Birmingham, Michigan.
Completes Largest Painting
Yanke completes his largest painting, a 7-and-a-half by 12-foot acrylic on canvas, commissioned for the Henry Autograph Collection Hotel in Dearborn, Michigan.
First Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency Fundraiser
Yanke takes part in his first Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency fundraiser, painting with children from Michigan to create works to be auctioned off.
Chosen as "Artist Resident" for Brush Creek Foundation for the Arts
Yanke is chosen as “Artist Resident” for the Brush Creek Foundation for the Arts in Saratoga, Washington.
Official Artist for the Amelia Island Jazz Festival
Yanke is chosen to be the official artist for the Amelia Island Jazz Festival in Florida, held October 8-11.
Habitat for Humanity Donation
Yanke donates his first artwork to the Habitat for Humanity organization, giving a “Yanke Doodle” to new homeowners to hang in their new residence.
“I’d rather hang in homes than museums – home is where the heart is, home is where the art is.”