"Paisley Park" Original Painting - Michael Birawer

Michael Birawer is a nationally acclaimed artist who was born, raised and currently lives in the Twin Cities. His work can be seen throughout the U.S., Canada and Europe.

After the artist, Prince, passed away in April, Michael was as stunned and shocked as all fans worldwide. He found inspiration in Prince's work and philanthropy. Having no intention to make a painting to honor the man, Michael's fans requested he paint something as a memorial and celebration of Prince's life.

Within a day, the sketch for "Paisley Park" was completed. Michael wanted this to be a special painting and decided he would donate all the funds raised by the sale of the original to a charity that Prince has supported and that Michael strongly believed in as well. That organization is The Bridge for Youth.

From Michell Basham, Executive Director at The Bridge for Youth:

"Prince's charity and commitment to his community is celebrated in ‘Paisley Park’, a beautiful tribute to his legacy. At The Bridge for Youth we believe that it takes a community to serve youth in crisis and we are grateful to have supportive community partners, like Michael Birawer, who make our work possible.”

The "Paisley Park" original painting is 42 inches high by 32 inches wide with a custom frame made by Michael. The medium is acrylic on hardboard.

The Bridge for Youth is a safe and welcoming place for youth ages 10−17 in the Twin Cities who have no one to turn to, nowhere to go. With a dedicated staff and strong support from the community, we help hundreds of youth get off the street, into safe shelter, and on to a better life. Our residential setting is unique among programs for runaway, LGBTQ and homeless youth, providing services at no charge, 24/7/365.

The Bridge develops approaches that help youth and families resolve their conflicts and move toward healthier relationships through a continuum of services.

• When youth can’t go home, feel shut out, or just need a break, emergency services at The Bridge provide a welcoming place 24/7/365 at no charge.
• The Transition Program is designed for older teens (ages 16−17) who may need more time before reconnecting with family or transitioning to an alternative living space. Throughout their stay, clients continue counseling and developing life skills.
• The Bridge for Youth uses a strength-based counseling approach that helps young people identify their strengths and develop self-confidence to increase their chances for success.
• The Bridge offers free counseling services for parents who are experiencing serious conflict with their teenage children.
• Free weekly support groups for youth and for parents offer a safe place to talk about challenges and provide peer support.