He’s pushing his limits in the world of hyperrealism with his graphite and charcoal drawings. Exhibiting locally and internationally, Mike has devoted much of his practice to drawings that display a life-like quality. He’s inspired by artists Thomas Eakins and Andrew Wyeth, and in modern times, CJ Hendry, Jono Dry and Emanuele Dascanio. In his practice, he draws motivation from a deep desire to connect with the human experience on a visceral level. The aim is to give the viewer that brief moment of doubt, questioning the nature of what they are seeing: a photograph or a drawing. Graphite and charcoal allow Mike to capture the nuances of form, light, and shadow, where each detail reveals the complexity of unique patterns that make up the human form and figure. Ultimately, his work is a pursuit of mastery over technique, but more importantly, it is an exploration of connection—bringing life to paper in a way that resonates with others, inviting them to pause and engage with the subtle emotions embedded in every stroke and mark of the pencil. Mike hopes to push the boundaries of what can be achieved with traditional mediums, while deepening his own understanding of the human form and spirit. He hopes his drawings give viewers a chance to reflect on what a little patience, consistency, and effort can yield in any endeavor.