We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Michael Norsk. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Michael below.

Michael, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I experienced a mental health crisis in 2016. My wife and I just had our second child. I was going to graduate school for my master’s degree in Elementary Education. I was working full time as a Health and Fitness Trainer. I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and anxiety/panic disorder. I needed to find a way to express my emotions; process my feelings. I picked up a sharpie marker and began to draw lines and dots on a large piece of drywall. This was an enlightening experience, one that changed the trajectory of my life. That is when I began painting full time and haven’t looked back. Painting helps me manage my daily mental health.

Michael, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am an abstract expressionist painter working with acrylic on canvas.
Originally from Denmark, I relocated with my family from Chicago to Boise in 2017. Thereafter, I have been an active member of the Boise art community.

Each of my abstract expressionism paintings begin with an emotional foundation tied to a momentary experience. Painting provides an opportunity to connect to, express, and process my emotions, feelings, and thoughts. It is my intention that each painting evoke a personal connection to emotion within the viewer.

My paintings represent a window into the layers of the journey along my path on the mental health continuum. Painting assists with daily mental health management. Creating allows me to free and focus my mind. For me, painting is therapeutic and provides a creative and productive outlet from an often busy and distracted world.

The external focal points of my creations are depth, detail, pattern, texture, and vibrant color. The variable physical character of acrylics allows me to evoke highly expressive qualities. The style of pointillism, among others, allows the freedom to create without restriction. Each dot, or stroke, that I apply to the canvas represents a thought or the space between my thoughts.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My mission is to spread awareness for mental mental health/illness through my artwork.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Being an artist allows me the freedom to create and to manage my mental health.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://michaelanorsk.com
• Instagram: michaelnorsk
• Facebook: michaelnorsk