Michael Sturtz is a sculptor, fabricator, educator, fire ballet director, and the designer (and rider) of the world’s fastest biodiesel motorcycle.
Michael defies labels and conventions with a body of creative work that is wide-ranging and continually evolving. In directing and producing over a half dozen fire ballets and operas, he has brought the excitement and power of the industrial arts from the studio onto the stage. He plays with similar juxtapositions in his design and sculptural work, bringing together the biological and the mechanical in a delicate, yet dynamic dance.

Michael lead a team named the Diesel Dozen, which designed and build the world’s first biodiesel land speed motorcycle. Michael rode the bike to a 100% bio-fueled land speed record of over 130mph. In addition to his professional and artistic successes, Michael is a passionate educator. As founder and former Executive Director of The Crucible in Oakland, CA. During his 12 years there, he created a unique educational setting which serves over 8000 students annually and offers classes in subjects ranging from welding and blacksmithing to ceramics and glass.

More information on his work can be found at michaelsturtz.com.

February 9, 2012