We were lucky to catch up with Michael Rubino recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Michael thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What sort of legacy are you hoping to build. What do you think people will say about you after you are gone, what do you hope to be remembered for?

As I grow as an artist, I hope my legacy will reflect a lifelong journey of self-discovery, soul exploration, and connection. Much of my work is rooted in the body—its movements, its rhythms, its capacity to express what words cannot. Whether movement is portrayed literally within a painting or reflected through the energy of a piece, it is central to my process. For me, movement is not only creative; it’s also therapeutic. It has always been a way to regulate my nervous system and bring me back to a place of clarity and calm.
Nature plays an equally profound role in my work. Like movement, it helps me reconnect with myself and the wholeness of the world. I see both the body and the natural world as mirrors—tools to ground us, to return us to the present, and to guide us toward healing.
I hope my art invites others into that space of reconnection. Whether through form, color, texture, or subject, I want to offer people moments of peace and soulful connection—opportunities to escape the pressures of daily life and instead return to their breath, their body, and feel connected to the world around them. Through that, I hope they gain insight, solace, and a renewed sense of self.
Art is a tool for healing, and I hope I have facilitated that. This applies not only to myself but to others, particularly in a time when so many are grappling with mental health challenges, disconnection, and questions of identity.
I want to be remembered as someone who used his art to help others heal, to reflect, and to grow. Someone who encouraged people to create without judgment, to seek meaning in the natural world, and to embrace themselves fully. I also want to honor my queerness through my work—celebrating the beauty and truth of queer identity as a natural and essential part of the human experience.

Ultimately, I hope my legacy is one of encouragement, empowerment, and authenticity. That people will say I helped them see themselves and the world more clearly—that I created space for connection, acceptance, and joy.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m a multimedia artist and designer whose work spans painting, sculpture, and space transformation. My artistic practice is deeply rooted in experimentation—my materials range from traditional paints to found objects, papier-mâché, and wood. I’m always exploring new ways to express emotion and meaning through texture, form, and movement.

Alongside my fine art practice, I also work professionally as a decorator, with a focus on seasonal and holiday installations. I love this part of my work because it allows me to spread joy and spark wonder in everyday spaces. Whether I’m painting a canvas or decking out a space for the holidays, my core intention remains the same: how can I transform the physical world to make people feel something?

At the heart of what I do is the belief that art and design have the power to shift energy—both within a space and within the people who encounter it. Whether it’s through a large-scale sculpture, a hand-painted piece, or an enchanting holiday display, I aim to create moments of emotional connection, warmth, and delight.

What sets me apart is the fluidity with which I move between disciplines and mediums. I don’t limit myself to a single style or category—I let the concept guide the materials. That openness and adaptability allow me to create work that’s dynamic, personal, and always evolving.

I’m most proud of my ability to make people feel something genuine through what I create—whether that’s comfort, joy, nostalgia, or curiosity. I want people to know that my work is about connection. It’s about taking something ordinary—an object, a space, a moment—and transforming it into something meaningful. That’s the magic I’m always chasing, and it’s what I hope to share with everyone who experiences my work.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Being present in my community has helped me not only gain clients but build lasting relationships.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

As a decorator, a major part of my role involves project management and leading a team. The reality is—none of the large-scale projects I take on would be possible without the team behind them. They are the foundation of how the work gets done and how the business functions day to day. Because of that, I believe deeply in taking care of the people I work with.

Good leadership starts with understanding. I make it a point to learn who my team members are—not just what they do, but what inspires them, how they’re motivated, and where they want to grow. Supporting their development and helping them build confidence in their craft is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.

I also believe in creating a balanced and positive work environment. While productivity is important, people are human. Prioritizing mental well-being and work-life balance is key to maintaining morale and retaining talent. Managing stress, offering clear communication, and creating a space where people feel seen and supported goes a long way.

Ultimately, I bring a collaborative, upbeat leadership style to the table—one rooted in mutual respect, support, and encouragement. When people feel valued and empowered, not only do they thrive individually, but the quality of the work elevates as well. That’s the kind of energy I aim to foster on every project

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.mcashino.com
• Instagram: Mikerubinocashino

Image Credits

Headshot Photography by Mahting Putelis