Among the works on display is a delicate, but richly detailed "Hidden Stairway" (2003 - 42" x 78", acrylic on board, pictured right).
The painting features ornate swirled ivy, reminiscent of Persian designs, covering a weathered stone staircase in a quiet garden wall.
Schmidt explains that he seeks to create a new artistic genre: "I am exploring what I call 'American Islamic Art'. In other words, I am following Islamic guidelines, while using my own artistic style, and choosing a subject matter which appeals to me.
"With this simple combination, I hope to invent a new style which will be accessible to all people, and perhaps even serve as a bridge between my American culture and my Islamic beliefs."
Other notable works include "Square Light" (2005 - 13" x 18", acrylic on board, pictured right), which depicts the interior of the Ronneburg, a castle near Michael's birthplace in Germany.
Using stark contrasts and intricate designs, the painting plays with positive and negative space in a unique way.
The exhibition runs from 11 January through 11 February, 2011. A reception, open to the public, will be held Friday, 21 January from 7 to 9 pm. Those who attend can meet the artist and learn more about his work.
Schmidt's artwork has also recently been shown at the "International Muslim Artists' Exhibition" held at the Zeitgeist Multidisciplinary Arts Center in New Orleans, and internationally at the "Real Colors" art show at Albaylasan Art Center in Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia.
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