Dr. Mike’s creative journey began early in his life; however, during the 20 years he spent in the US Army, his artistic style truly emerged. Over his military career, his experiences shaped the themes and techniques of his distinctive abstract art, which forged a visual language deeply influenced by it. This analysis will explore six works within his portfolio that draw attention to the veteran experience and the artist who lives with trauma and traumatic recovery.

The United States Veterans’ Artists Alliance (USVAA) is an award-winning, multi-disciplinary non-profit arts organization, founded in 2004 by military veterans and artists. USVAA provides opportunities for veterans in the arts by highlighting the work of veterans in the arts, humanities and entertainment industry along with the contributions veterans have made to the rich cultural history of our nation since the Revolutionary War. Additionally, USVAA networks with veterans, artists, supportive individuals and organizations within the arts and veterans’ communities to find funding and support for individual artistic projects in theater, film, television, the visual/fine arts and a wide variety of crafts.

Guardian Rising is filled with mindful health and wellness strategies and timeless insights intended for new or future military service members seeking to stand guard over our great nation. While this book is primarily meant for military warriors who will undoubtedly be asked to show courage, strength, and ingenuity in the face of adversity, it can also be useful for just about any young adult. Inside, are practices and techniques for personal growth, self-awareness, self-regulation, building personal resilience, and much more.

Warrior Heart Gallery explores themes of warriorship, identity, memory, transition, belonging, and human becoming through articles, storytelling, and creative inquiry. The writing brings together personal reflection, arts-based research, philosophy, and lived experience to examine the complexities of military service and life beyond it. Articles explore the intersections of art, pilgrimage, place, community, and personal transformation. This publication is intended for veterans, military families, artists, scholars, practitioners, and anyone interested in the deeper questions of human experience. Above all, it offers a space for reflection, meaningful dialogue, and fresh perspectives on what it means to be a warrior in a changing world.

“Hopes and Dreams,” a 48'“by 48” pop art piece Dr. Mike created, was featured in the May 2017 issue of Parachutist Magazine (page 8).

Here is a closer like at Dr. Mike’s studies at Southwestern College, a consciousness-centered graduate school in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This school offers online/distance and on the ground programs including MA in Transformational Leadership, MA in Counseling, MA in Art Therapy/Counseling, MA in Art Therapy for Clinical Professionals, and MA Consciousness in Action, as well as a PhD in Visionary Practice and Regenerative Leadership.