Edward Stephenson Bates (1925-2021) was an honored World War II veteran, devoted father, and celebrated painter.
Edward's artistic talents were self-taught and his paintings have been exhibited many places, including but not limited to the New York Tri-state area and Long Island. In addition to exhibits at the annual Fulton Street Art Fair, Brooklyn Museum and US Supreme Court, Edward took part in countless exhibits. He has won various first place and best in show awards. He was a proud member of the Fulton Street Arts Consortium and the 20th Century Creators.
Edward served in the U.S. Navy during World War 2 and was assigned to the Floyd Bennett Naval Air Station in Brooklyn, New York. After his discharge from the Navy, he lived in Brooklyn for many years, but settled in Deer Park, NY where he participated in community and arts council activities. He was also a member of the Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts. Edward was committed to his craft, which showcased his African-American culture. Multiple and diverse communities celebrated him highly throughout life, especially the Fulton Street Art Fair Consortium in Brooklyn New York and more recently on Long Island – notably in 2013 by the Town of Babylon for his contribution to cultural history, and in 2014 for his one-man career retrospective show at the Conklin House.
Michael T Bates was born in Brooklyn, New York. Michael's work has been exhibited in various art shows in Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island. As he loves animals, especially birds, they are a common subject of his paintings.
Having no professional art training, Michael credits his art talents to his father, the acclaimed artist Edward Bates. It was by watching his father paint in their home over the years that Michael developed his own painting skills. Of course the ability was also inherited and as they say; "The fruit never falls far from the tree".
Michael's love for art has extended his hobby interests into filmmaking, animation, ventriloquism, and magic. He also achieved Competent Toastmaster status in public speaking.
Michael is also an author. He has published books under the pen name 'MThomasB'. See his website for currently published books at: https//mthomasb.com