We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Michael Dennis a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Michael thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Day to day the world can seem like a tough place, but there’s also so much kindness in the world and we think talking about that kindness helps spread it and make the world a nicer, kinder place. Can you share a story of a time when someone did something really kind for you?

The kindest thing that was done for me was when I decided to change my major from pre-law to art history and studio art. I was floundering with no experience wondering if I had made a mistake when a family friend and mentor named Dave viewed my art. We spoke about my art and how the totalitarian professors were giving me a hard time because I did not fit into their mold of what an artist was supposed to be. The professor wanted us to learn how to paint by copying other artist’s works and would not let me express our talent in a different way other than their way. The professor did not allow me to sign up for art shows or festivals because they saved these shows for their favorite students which followed their every word. I was at my wit’s end.
Dave realized that I would go nowhere if I followed this path. He mentioned that his aunt Puchi Noriega from Peru was a professional contemporary artist and sculptor. He promised to introduce her to me to see if I had the talent to become a proficient artist. We met at her art studio. I showed her some of my works, and she stared at my artwork for a long time making me quiver with insecurity. When she finally spoke, I was pleased to know that she liked my work, but that it was raw, and I needed to learn the proper way to paint and sculpt. She took me under her wing as her apprentice and taught me the proper forms of art. I began to pay for her classes, but when my father became ill, and could not pay for the classes anymore. She allowed me to stay on as her apprentice. She would always say we will figure this out later and allowed me to stay in her classes. The deal was that I would pay for my classes by helping when she needed help. After a few classes, it became clear to both of us, that I had found my voice and confidence as a true artist and sculptor. Her teachings allowed me to be published in art magazines nationally and internationally, and I was even awarded the Distinguished Artist Award. All she asked was for me to pay it forward, and I help anyone who needs help to this day.

Michael , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My career is about the expression of the human condition through art. Therefore, I am an artist and sculptor who provides an aesthetic point of view for the customer in a contemporary or surrealistic style. I was fortunate that the art industry fell into my laps with the help of one famous artist who took me under her wing and taught me the ins and outs of the industry. The type of product is in the eye of the beholder, for art is subjective to the viewer. Consequently, I sell art to those who want to expand their knowledge and emotions through art.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

The best way to understand and build your reputation in the art community is to find art communities consistent with your style of art to establish a repertoire with those that show and produce art. Then it is imperative to show art in festivals, shows, museums, and galleries that allow starting artists to display their works. The next step is to show again because art that is not seen is forgotten. When showing your artwork take constructive criticism from legitimate art critics, but do not hover over them. Allow your artwork to speak for itself. Lastly, do not forget about your social media as a source of showing your work.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

After finding my way in Miami, I was forced to move to Orlando, Florida to start all over again. However, these changes made me a better artist because I had the tools and teaching to keep moving forward. I expanded my business with my personal art show, got on people’s radar, and started to make contacts needed to establish an art career in Orlando.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @michaeldennisart
• Facebook: @michaeldennis
• Linkedin: Michael Dennis art

Image Credits

Michael Dennis
Michael Dennis Art