A native of Northern California, Mike received his intial Art training at Sacramento City College. He furthered his studies at De Anza and Foothill colleges in the San Jose Area. His early paintings centered on the many Victorian homes of the Central Valley. By applying his watercolors and oils in a realistic technique, he captures the subtle beauty of a finely carved handrail or the delicate pattern of a lace curtain.
After a long career in the Graphic Design field, Mike began to share his talents by teaching High School Art. About the same time he began looking for a new medium that better fit his detailed style. That's when he discovered Colored Pencils and the stunning detail artists worldwide were achieving.
Mike works exclusively with Prismacolors on Stonehenge papers. Some of his subjects have been nostalic toys, weathered buildings, old tools, and he is continually expanding his subject matter.
Awards and Competitions
2009- University Art Open Show-Finalist, Sacramento, California
2009- FMP From My Perspective-Ann Kulberg Member Show
2008- University Art Open Show, Sacramento, California- 2nd place
2008- FMP Member Show
1994 4th Corel World Design Competition, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada-Award of Merit
1994 Northern California Techincal Publications Competition-Award of Merit
1994 3rd Corel World Design Design Competition, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada-Award of Excellence
1991 Two Person show-Roseville Arts Center-Roseville, California
1990 California Arts League-Open Competition- 1st Place Oils
1990 California Arts League-Representational Show - Finalist
1990 League of Carmichael Artists, Carmichael, California - Two Honorable Mentions
1990 Roseville Arts Center 15th Open Show, Roseville California Honorable Mention
1989 California Arts League Representational Show, Carmichael, California
1975 Industrial Television Awards, Best Set Design