Greg Mike: Crafting Bold Expressions in Color and Collaboration

My advice is to stay true to your vision and keep creating, no matter what. Consistency and perseverance are key. Don’t be afraid to experiment and take risks, but always stay connected to what makes your work unique. Also, building relationships is important—connect with other artists, collaborate, and don’t be afraid to put your work out there. The more you share, the more opportunities will come your way.

Collaborating with Deadmau5 was a memorable experience because it combined two things I'm deeply passionate about which is art and music. Music has always been a huge part of my lifestyle—it fuels my creativity and sets the tone for much of my work. So, when the opportunity came to paint the iconic Deadmau5 helmets, it felt like the perfect blend of both worlds. Each helmet was a canvas to experiment with bold colors and dynamic energy, capturing the essence of sound visually. Working with an artist like Deadmau5, who has such a strong identity in both the music and creative communities, pushed me to innovate in new ways.

The new construction build-out of ABV has been both incredibly challenging and deeply rewarding. Going into the project, I had no prior knowledge of construction or renovation, but I dove into it with a willingness to learn along the way. Every part of the process was hands-on, and I was involved in each detail, from selecting materials to designing the flow of the space. With my strong eye for aesthetics and attention to detail, I approached the design with my own exhibition in mind but also created a space that could showcase the work of other artists.

It’s been a dream to build a gallery that not only reflects my personal vision but also serves as a platform for other creatives. The goal was to create an environment that elevates the viewing experience, where every piece—whether mine or others’—feels like it belongs. Designing this space to inspire and support a broader artistic community has made the entire process even more rewarding, and I’m excited to see how the space will come alive with a diverse range of works.

Pop culture references in my work tap into a sense of nostalgia that connects people to their own pasts. By using these familiar elements, I invite viewers in and encourage them to reflect on how we grow and evolve over time. It’s not just about recreating memories but reimagining them through a contemporary lens—much like how street art reclaims public spaces or how modern artists blend traditional and digital mediums. Pop culture in art draws people in with recognition, but ultimately, it opens the door to explore deeper themes of identity, memory, and culture.

Staying inspired during creative blocks can be challenging, but I’ve found that mixing up my routine helps. I seek inspiration from different sources—whether it’s exploring new art forms, traveling, or just immersing myself in different environments. I also find that taking a step back and working on something completely different can help reset my creativity. It’s important to keep pushing forward, even if it’s at a slower pace, and to trust that the inspiration will come.

Nostalgia offers a powerful way to connect with both personal memories and collective experiences. I’m inspired by the emotions and stories tied to the past—whether it’s the comfort of familiar imagery or the way old memories can evoke a strong sense of warmth and joy. 

Social media is a great tool for connecting directly with my audience and sharing my work in real time. I use platforms to give followers a behind-the-scenes look at my creative process, share updates on new projects, and engage with the art community.