New York based fashion designer & rock musician Michael Houghton is the creative genius behind many rock & roll associated artistic endeavors with his name. Known primarily for his current “Rock Punk Couture” clothing line, his designs have made fans & clients out of such legendary rock figures as The Rolling Stones, Aerosmith, The New York Dolls, Duran Duran, Guns ‘n Roses & Jane’s Addiction to name a few. His clients from the world of rock royalty come to be outfitted by him knowing that his signatory custom pieces have a look all their own, something Mr. Houghton is widely known for. Michael Houghton now takes it a step further by delving into the contemporary art realm with a collection entitled “The Smoking Series”. The pieces, once again influenced by his love of all things “rock”, feature repurposed images on canvas, wood, metal & light boxes of legendary icons such as Keith Richards, David Bowie, Mick Jagger & John Lennon from rock’s classic 60’s & 70’s glory period. Meticulously created by Mr. Houghton with his signatory “wallpapering” stretching method & embellished with all their glittered finery, the paintings reflect the same close attention to detail he has parlayed into making each & every piece in his custom clothing lines so unique. Mr. Houghton now pushes his creative talents to a new echelon with the same deep passion he has for his signature style of rock punk, wild gypsy hedonism & vintage rock and roll. A style that has made his music, clothing lines & now art so cutting edge & compelling in the downtown NYC fashionista/rock scene. Mr. Houghton’s first installation of “The Smoking Series” which took place in December 2010 at an art space in Soho, NY, resulted in a near sold out show it's opening night. Further acclaim came with a 6 week impromptu showing in May/June 2011 at the 19 Kenmare St. Gallery in downtown NYC. A testament to the innovative & cutting edge appeal of the art pieces. Each painting has an authenticity that most certainly comes from the artist’s passion for rock & roll culture & joy for the work. Mr. Houghton is a true artist wanting to share his vision with all who care to join the ride & art is the medium taking us all right there with him. It is a passion he lives by, in all the artistic mediums that happen to inspire him.