We recently connected with Michael Todd Serr and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Michael Todd thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you feel you or your work has ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized? If so, tell us the story and how/why it happened and if there are any interesting learnings or insights you took from the experience?

As an artist I have been often misunderstood and mischaracterized. The world has been quick to pigeonhole me as a protector, fighter… security professional based on my exterior and my physique. And although I am all those things, I have had a long and successful career in close protection and in the larger security profession, I am also an artist and gallery owner.

The juxtaposition of my ‘identities’ has led to a unique struggle for me in the art world. Art critics and patrons at first, viewed my artwork through the lens of my profession. “Quite impressive for a body guard.” and comments of that sort came easily as people tried to compartmentalize me based on my profession and lacked a broader perception of my multifaceted identities.

When I first introduced my work to the Los Angeles area I was concentrating on large motion abstracts Pollack in nature and Basquiat inspired contemporary graffiti paintings and while these styles were met with much praise and appreciation it wasn’t until I showed some of my more delicate and intricate paintings that I feel like the lens was shattered.

I was seen for my artistic ability and people could see how the duality of my life in respect to my profession only enhanced my art. It gave my art depth and narrative. It was because I have such diverse experiences and have traveled extensively for work that my art is as layered and dimensional that it is.

Michael Todd, 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?

About: Michael Todd Serr Born in 1963 in the small town of Geneva, Nebraska, Michael Todd Serr’s journey as an artist

began far from the bustling art scenes of major cities. Early in his life, following his father’s departure, Serr moved to

California with his mother, older sister, and two cats. This transition would prove pivotal in shaping his future artistic path.

Now based in Sierra Madre, California, Serr has established himself as a notable figure in the state’s vibrant art community.

While often categorized as an abstract expressionist, Serr maintains a humble perspective on his work and process. In his

own words, he is “just a guy that taught himself how to paint to save his soul from his demons.” Serr’s self-taught approach

to art reflects a deep, personal journey of self-discovery and healing. His work, born from an inner necessity rather than

formal training, resonates with raw emotion and authenticity. Through his paintings, Serr navigates the complexities of his

past and present, transforming personal struggles into visual expressions that speak to the human experience. The artist’s

unpretentious view of his craft, coupled with the evocative power of his work, has garnered attention in the art world. Serr’s

pieces serve as testament to the transformative power of art, not only for the viewer but for the creator himself.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Artistic Vision: “My work explores the hidden narratives within human behavior, celebrating the beauty of the undefined.

Through autodidactic, non-conformant abstract expressionism, I create mesmerizing visuals that invite viewers to pause

and delve into the layers of life. Using motion and a variety of tools and mediums, I craft pieces that evoke intrigue and

desire, while simultaneously destabilizing preconceptions. This approach opens up thought-provoking ideas and

encourages deeper exploration. Inspired by the vast diversity of human behavior, my art aims to slow down the viewer,

allowing them to discover the often-overlooked beauty beneath the surface. Each piece is an invitation to peel back the

layers of existence and find meaning in the ambiguous and the undefined.”

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

Building your audience on social media can be challenging. I have tried multiple ways to build my social media including paying to boost posts. I have found what works best for me is to authentically engage my audience not only with my art work but also by sharing my life experiences and travel.

People want to get a feel of the artist not just the art… the end product. They want to know what drives you. What motivates you. Where your passion is. I believe sharing that with your audience not only endears you to the viewer but allows the viewer to be more involved in the work.. They become “insiders” in a sense.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding part of being an artist is watching the emotion my work can bring out in. people. Sometimes it’s joy. Sometimes tears. Sometimes anger. What ever emotion that my work draws out in the viewer is a success for me. That I was able to communicate my emotions, my passion, my journey on canvas, in a sculpture is very rewarding for me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.baldwinavenuegallery.com
• Instagram: @michaeltoddserrartist

Image Credits

Photos all taken by Michael Todd Serr and Mary Hoffman Serr. We give permission to use any or all of the photos.