Artists

The Tucson Gallery Asked Each Artist The Same Questions To Get To Know Them Better

Where did you grow up?

I moved to Tucson at the age of 11, and although I’m not technically a native, it has been my home for the longest part of my life. Prior to Tucson, I lived in Alabama and North Carolina. Moving to the desert was a significant adjustment, but it has been an incredible journey. I’ve found amazing, life-long friends here and haven’t looked back since

Tell us about your family

Well, my journey with my husband Tony, began back at NAU in Flagstaff, where we crossed paths as students. Tony’s knack for mechanical engineering always impressed me; he has this uncanny ability to troubleshoot and repair just about anything, which I find incredibly admirable.

Over the past 15 years of marriage, we’ve cultivated a wonderful bond, and our household is further enriched by our curious and nature-loving 9-year-old son. He’s absolutely enthralled by the world of insects, animals, and the great outdoors. Reflecting on my own affinity for nature, I realize it’s a legacy passed down from my father, an arborist who instilled in me a deep appreciation for the natural world during childhood walks, pointing out the diverse species of trees. And then there’s my mother – she pursued creative writing in college but ultimately chose a path in respiratory therapy, working tirelessly as a single parent. Despite her dedication to healthcare, she encouraged me to follow my passions, steering me away from the medical field. Their influences have shaped our family dynamic and my own career pursuits

Do you have pets, if yes, tell us about them?

Yes, I have three very spoiled, small dogs. It’s wonderful, except when someone knocks on the door or rings the doorbell. My son has a bearded dragon and raises beetles, as he dreams of becoming an entomologist. While I’m not particularly fond of bugs, I’m doing my best to embrace his passion.

When did you know that you would be an artist?

From a very young age, I always loved being creative and working with my hands. Art and music were always my favorite subjects. In high school, I played the clarinet in the band and considered a career in music, but the visual arts increasingly drew my attention. I spent my spare time sketching, always immersed in my sketchbook.

One memorable moment was when my friends surprised me by turning my sketchbook into a coloring book. We sold it to people on 4th Avenue to raise funds for a trip to Mexico. This experience marked a turning point, both for my art and my perception of its potential. It was then that I truly felt my passion for visual arts solidify and take a new direction.

What is your favorite media to work with?

I have a deep love for painting, alternating between watercolor and acrylics. Watercolor allows me to be more fluid and less perfectionistic, encouraging a more relaxed and intuitive approach. It also helps me to be more conscious of how light is portrayed. Acrylics, on the other hand, offer a different kind of control and vibrancy, balancing my artistic exploration.

What do you do when you’re not doing the voodoo that you do?

When I’m not creating, I love spending time with my son and husband. We enjoy golfing, hiking, swimming, playing guitar and exploring the beautiful landscapes of the Southwest. I also work full-time in an arts administrative position, where I relish the opportunity to promote other artists.

After the Neighborhood Diners painting was complete, Mike started a second Tucson themed painting.  This time the theme being Local Mexican Restaurants. As with the Neighborhood Diner piece, Mike posted updates on various Tucson Facebook pages. Also, as with the Diners painting, individuals gave valuable feedback that was incorporated into the painting.

Over the past four years, most of Mike’s art has focused on this participatory process of creating Tucson themed art.   To date, nine have been completed.  And for each, the stories people have told on Facebook, and the recommendations they made, have given the artwork a texture and feeling it would not have had if there were not the participation. And for individuals who might believe that they didn’t have any artistic talent, they got to actively participate the artistic process.

The Tucson Gallery Asked Each Artist The Same Questions To Get To Know Them Better

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in southern California; during the mid to late 60s …. Hence I had a front row seat to the cultural, social and artistic shifts that would be sweeping across the country. 

Tell us about your family

My wife (Esther, who has put up with me for over 50 years) and I raised two children, Scott and Melissa.  Both are University of Arizona graduates, and both live in the Phoenix area.  We are also blessed with two grandchildren, Logan and Dylan.  

When did you know that you would be an artist?

Interesting question.  I think “I identified as an artist” at a very young, grade school age.  

What is your favorite media to work with?

My primary medium is currently digital painting.  I love it for a variety of reason, but mostly because it allows me to carry my studio (basically my laptop) with me wherever I go.

(I am often hesitant to use the term Digital Painting to describe my art, for fear that someone might think that all I do is hit a button and viola …. A painting.  In fact, each of my digital street scene paintings take upwards of 200 hours to complete).

What do you do when you’re not doing the voodoo that you do?

In some ways, I don’t think I’m ever entirely not doing art.  If not actively designing and painting; I’m likely thinking about future possibilities.   

I also greatly enjoy my wife and I spending time with our kids and grandkids. Going on cruises with my wife and friends is also high up on the list of things I enjoy doing.

The Tucson Gallery Asked Each Artist The Same Questions To Get To Know Them Better

Where did you grow up?

My earlier childhood was spent in Southern California, but my family moved to Tucson, AZ when I was barely a teenager, so Tucson feels more like home.

Tell us about your family

I moved to AZ with my mom and sisters when I was younger, and the rest of my family lives in CA. My mom, sisters, and their partners all currently live in Tucson. I’m enjoying the single life with my pets at home.

Do you have pets, if yes, tell us about them

Yes, two cats— Mushu and Neo— who are my loves, and 10 snakes— mostly Carpet pythons (a species from Australia).

When did you know that you would be an artist?

I’ve always enjoyed art from a young age and my mom said I would be an artist someday. I remember creating detailed drawings for book reports in second grade, and I continued drawing until I reached college. College put a damper on my creative spirit due to lack of time, and I didn’t revisit art until I graduated. I started exploring painting around that time, and though it was very irregular over the following years, I picked it up again and have been creating art somewhat consistently for the past decade. Only in the past few years did I decide to pursue art as more than a hobby, and create on a regular basis with intention to share it with others.

What is your favorite media to work with?

I love working with acrylic paint, and I recently picked up markers a few years ago as an experimental side project. Though it was a steep learning curve initially, I improved my skills over the following years, and not only do I love using markers now, but all of my stickers and invertebrate art have been created using this medium! I also sketch and occasionally mess with watercolors.

What do you do when you’re not doing the voodoo that you do?

When I’m not creating art I’m at my job working with reptiles and invertebrates, hiking, at the gym, reading, learning piano, baking, spending time with my kitties, and during the summer I enjoy Blacklighting (for moths) and looking for reptiles.

The Tucson Gallery Asked Each Artist The Same Questions To Get To Know Them Better

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Toronto, Canada

Tell us about your family

My parents are both Dutch. My mother was born almost smack in the middle of Amsterdam. My father was born in Indonesia when it was still a Dutch Colony. Unlucky for him he, was there when the Japanese invaded, and spent almost four years in Japanese Concentration camp. Dutch was actually my first language. My parents immigrated to Canada a year before I was born. I come from a very artistic family on my mom’s side. Both my Grandfather and Uncle were famous artists in the Netherlands. My Uncle had some work in the Portrait Gallery of the famous Rijksmuseum. My cousins are all well known artists as well. I am married and have two children. My oldest is a tech guy in San Francisco and my youngest is Jeweler in Tucson (Austin Pierson Jewelry). He also has some pieces in this Gallery. My husband is now retired, he worked in the mining business.

Fun fact, we met in Colombia South America, I was teaching and he was working in the mine. He is a Tucson native. That’s how I ended up living here and I love it!

Do you have pets, if yes, tell us about them

Yes! We have two dogs. Oreo is an English Pointer, and is getting on in years, yet can still drag me down the street. Radar is a Papillion and spoiled rotten! He always wants to play.

When did you know that you would be an artist?

I have always wanted to be an artist. I just had a lot of competition in my family and never felt good enough. I wanted to go to the Ontario College of Art, but wasn’t accepted. I was accepted at Sheridan College and York University for art. I chose to study Illustration at Sheridan College and did not like it at all. I was worried about feeding myself so I went into teaching instead. I continued drawing and took as many art courses as I could throughout my career. One day I had enough..quit my teaching job and decided to pursue my passion. Life is too short not to enjoy yourself!

What is your favorite media to work with?

My favorite Medium is the Colored Pencil. I love to draw and paint. This medium gives me the opportunity to draw in color. I call it drawpainting. The colored pencil is detail orientated and not a fast process, but I find it soothing. Occasionally I will combine it with other mediums such as inktense pencils, watercolors or the air brush.

What do you do when you’re not doing the voodoo that you do?

When I am not doing my art I enjoy the outdoors. I like to walk and hike. I also enjoy camping, fishing and traveling. I have a vegetable garden and am an avid lap swimmer.

The Tucson Gallery Asked Each Artist The Same Questions To Get To Know Them Better

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Tucson, Arizona, a place that has always been close to my heart. It’s where my journey with art began, from my early days in school to painting murals around the city. Tucson’s vibrant culture and the support of my local community have been instrumental in my development as an artist.

Tell us about your family

I am blessed to be the fifth of six children in our lively household. My mother, a phenomenal chef, single-handedly raised us, filling our home with love and the most delicious meals. She’s my rock, having supported every art event I’ve participated in. I owe my resilience and passion to her. My siblings, especially Christian, are a source of endless laughter and joy, keeping our family bond strong and spirited.

Do you have pets, if yes, tell us about them

Currently, I don’t have pets. My busy schedule of creating art, spending time with family, and traveling doesn’t leave much room for furry companions. But I cherish the vibrant and lively energy similar to what a pet would bring into my life.

When did you know that you would be an artist?

I knew I was destined to be an artist since the third grade, at the age of 9. That’s when my first painting, “The Great Wave off Kanagawa,” was sold. That moment was pivotal; it wasn’t just about the sale, but the realization that my art could evoke emotions and connect with others on a deeper level.

What is your favorite media to work with?

Oil paint is my favorite medium. It allows me to express the vibrancy and depth of my experiences and inspirations. The texture and richness of oil paint help me bring my ideas to life in a way that resonates with the emotions I wish to convey in my artwork.

What do you do when you’re not doing the voodoo that you do?

When I’m not immersed in my art, I love to engage in activities that rejuvenate my body and spirit. Lifting weights gives me a sense of strength and discipline, while easy hikes allow me to connect with nature and find new inspirations. Spending quality time with my family and exploring new places on short weekend trips are also essential parts of my life that keep me grounded and inspired.

The Tucson Gallery Asked Each Artist The Same Questions To Get To Know Them Better

Where did you grow up?

Detroit, Michigan, is where my artistic journey first began. It’s a city with a rich cultural tapestry that has always been a source of inspiration for me.

Tell us about your family

I’m the middle of two brothers, and together, we shared dreams of how creativity would shape our lives and the world around us. Family has always been a cornerstone of support for my artistic endeavors. Now, I reside in East Tucson with my wife, Amelia Clark, who is a talented glass artist herself.

Do you have pets, if yes, tell us about them

While I have a deep affection for animals, I haven’t had the privilege of sharing my life with a furry friend. My creativity and teaching have been my constant companions.

When did you know that you would be an artist?

My journey into the world of art ignited at the tender age of seven. It all began with pencil sketching, and I quickly discovered the immense joy of self-expression through art. This spark has grown into the vibrant flame that fuels my creativity today.

What is your favorite media to work with?

In recent times, I’ve found my artistic focus in the digital realm and graphic art. The endless possibilities offered by technology have opened up new avenues for my creativity, allowing me to explore and experiment in exciting ways.

What do you do when you’re not doing the voodoo that you do?

When I’m not immersed in my own creative pursuits, I channel my passion for the arts into teaching. At the University of Arizona, I have the privilege of guiding students through the fascinating realm of “Computing and the Arts.” It’s a rewarding experience to share knowledge and inspire budding artists to explore their potential.

The Tucson Gallery Asked Each Artist The Same Questions To Get To Know Them Better

Where did you grow up?

I’m a Tucson native, born and raised right here in the heart of Arizona.

Tell us about your family

My roots trace back to Arkansas, but my family embarked on a journey to Tucson when I was just 3 years old. We’ve grown since then – I have two wonderful sisters, a brother, and a bundle of nieces and nephews. In the midst of it all, there’s my 13-year-old daughter, who’s inherited my artistic spirit and creativity.

Do you have pets, if yes, tell us about them

My home is graced by the presence of two charming Persian cats. There’s Deja, a delicate white and grey lady, and then there’s Demarcus, a vivacious orange and white gentleman. They bring an extra touch of artistry to my life.

When did you know that you would be an artist?

The seed of artistry was planted in me when I was just 8 years old. Back then, I began sketching designs of clothing because I dreamt of becoming a fashion designer. Little did I know that my creative journey would lead me to explore so many other captivating artistic forms.

What is your favorite media to work with?

While I adore experimenting with various art forms, acrylics have a special place in my heart. The vibrant colors and versatile nature of acrylic paints allow me to bring my artistic visions to life with remarkable flexibility.

What do you do when you’re not doing the voodoo that you do?

Beyond my artistry, I’m a skilled hairstylist. I also cherish spending quality time with my 13-year-old daughter and close friends. Whether we’re creating art together or simply enjoying life’s moments, these connections are an integral part of my world.

The Tucson Gallery Asked Each Artist The Same Questions To Get To Know Them Better

Where did you grow up?

I’m a SoCal native, originally from Ontario, California. That’s where my artistic journey began, under the warm California sun.

Tell us about your family

I had the privilege of growing up in a family of four. My mom, a remarkable 101 years old and still going strong, and my dad, who sadly passed away in 2015, provided a loving and supportive environment. My brother now resides in North Carolina with his wife, Sally. We had our fair share of adventures, and their support played a crucial role in my artistic pursuits. Today, my immediate family consists of my partner, Robert, and myself. We’ve been on quite the ride together for 37 years, and we’re far from done with our adventures.

Do you have pets, if yes, tell us about them

While we don’t have any furry companions at the moment, we used to share our lives with two magnificent Bengal cats. We said our goodbyes to the last one in June of 2023, and we still carry his memory with us. That Bengal left paw prints on our hearts that we’ll never forget.

When did you know that you would be an artist?

My journey as an artist began with a childhood love for drawing. Back then, I couldn’t predict where this passion would take me. Formal training at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA, honed my skills. I spent years as a Graphic Designer, but I never lost my connection to drawing. It wasn’t until I rekindled my love for painting in 2005 that I truly embraced the title of an artist. Painting allowed me to explore my deep-seated love for oil, watercolor, and drawing.

What is your favorite media to work with?

Choosing a favorite artistic medium is like picking a favorite star in the sky – each shines uniquely. The immediacy of pen and ink sketchbook drawings always fascinates me. Watercolor, oil on canvas, and drawing have all brought me immense fulfillment over the years.

What do you do when you’re not doing the voodoo that you do?

Life outside my art studio is a colorful tapestry of interests. I’m a partner in culinary adventures with Robert, where he’s the chef extraordinaire, and I play the role of the trusty sous chef. Music has always been a part of my life; I used to be a singer and embraced choral work. Now, I’m content being an appreciative audience member, especially when it comes to musical theater. I even make pilgrimages to NYC to savor the magic of live theater. Museums and their world of visual arts captivate me. Traveling and seeking new experiences to expand my horizons keeps me engaged. Staying active and on the move is second nature to me – there’s always an adventure waiting to be had.

Do you have pets, if yes, tell us about them

No

When did you know that you would be an artist?

Aneta’s journey into writing began unexpectedly at the age of 22 when a tarot reader pointed out the “Writing” card at the center of her life journey. Initially skeptical, as her background was in business and economics, the seed was planted. The idea for the first book, Prague Green City Guide, which she co-authored, came to fruition later, marking a significant milestone in her writing journey.

What is your favorite media to work with?

Her inspiration to become a writer stems from a deep-seated passion for storytelling, recognizing it as the oldest method through which people connect, share, and exchange information. She firmly believes in the transformative power of books to inspire and enrich lives, fostering intelligence and understanding. Additionally, she sees writing, especially keeping a diary, as a therapeutic practice that helps navigate life’s challenges. Both writing and reading serve as invaluable tools for personal growth and self-discovery.

What do you do when you’re not doing the voodoo that you do?

Apart from writing, she enjoys traveling, sports, exploring, and learning about psychology, business, marketing and literature.

When did you know that you would be an artist?

I guess when I painted a giant shark on my bedroom ceiling when I was 10 years old. I have drawn for as long as I can remember, did graphic art, like silkscreening, but I didn’t start painting until last year.

What is your favorite media to work with?

Mixed media, watercolor and ink so far.

What do you do when you’re not doing the voodoo that you do?

When I am not working or painting, I like to work in my garden, or on the never ending remodel of my home, but my favorite thing is going to Rocky Point, MX. , beach camping and snorkeling.