Big Mike is a self-taught artist. Born in the late 60's in Long Beach, California. Mike took to art as soon as he was able to hold a crayon. Throughout his childhood, Mike developed an appreciation for his majestic surroundings. He would often sit in trees for hours with pencils and pad, or drift in a boat off Santa Catalina Island absorbing inspiration. Years of artistic expression made it clear that Mike's life would be centered upon his passion for art some day. During high school, Mike explored many mediums and techniques in art and this is when he discovered his true passion, AIRBRUSHING.

Mike moved to Oahu, Hawaii in 1995 to work in the surface preparation and coating industry (for a check) but enjoyed absorbing the ultimate beauty and atmosphere of the island life for artistic inspiration.