This selection of paintings are a result of a project in which the artist contacted people online that share the same given name and surname as his (Michael Cook) and requested an image of them. The returned images then formed the basis for a group of portraits, a selection of which are seen in this selection.

The resulting images present questions about a number of subjects that effect us both professionally and personally as artists and citizens in a culture increasingly dependent upon technology in every sphere of life. Conceptions of authenticity, originality, genetics, family, interpersonal communication, identity and humor rise to the surface in these paintings.

All works are 24 x 24 inches, oil, carbon on canvas, 1999-2000.