With over 15 years of artistic exploration fueling his dynamic new works, Greg Mike invites visitors to experience his signature bold characters and vibrant creations that pulse with energy and movement.
Your murals can be found in cities worldwide. How do you choose the locations for your projects?
I look for places where the mural can connect with the community and add something meaningful to the environment. I try to find the right vibe and create work that resonates with the people there.
How do you approach the process of designing merchandise based on your artwork?
When designing merchandise, I focus on capturing the essence of my artwork in a way that translates well to wearable or collectible items. It’s about simplifying and adapting the designs while keeping the bold energy and color that defines my style.
Your art often incorporates elements of humor. Why is laughter important in your work?
Laughter brings people together and breaks down barriers. Incorporating humor into my art makes it more approachable and creates an instant connection with the viewer. I want to spread positivity and remind people not to take life too seriously. If my work can make someone smile or laugh, I feel like I’ve succeeded.
How do you see the relationship between art and activism, and does your work intersect with social or political causes?
Art has a powerful ability to spark conversation and inspire change. While my work primarily focuses on positivity and self-expression, I believe in using art as a platform to uplift communities and bring attention to important causes. I’ve collaborated with organizations and projects that align with social issues I care about, but I like to let the message come through organically, allowing people to interpret and engage with it in their own way.
Your artwork is known for its energy and dynamism. How do you achieve this sense of movement in static images?
I use bold lines, vibrant colors, and dynamic compositions to create the feeling of movement. The characters I design are often in action or have exaggerated expressions, which adds to that sense of energy. It’s about creating flow within the piece, where the viewer’s eye naturally moves around, making the image feel alive even though it’s static.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career as an artist?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is to stay true to my vision and trust the process. There will always be challenges, setbacks, and outside opinions, but staying focused on what inspires me has been key. It’s about evolving, experimenting, and not being afraid to take risks but always staying connected to the core of what makes my work my own.
Your agency, ABV Agency, encompasses art, design, and creative direction. How do you manage these different aspects?
It’s all about balance and collaboration. Each aspect — art, design, creative direction — feeds into the other, so I approach them as interconnected rather than separate. I’ve built a strong team that allows us to tackle different projects while maintaining a cohesive vision.
Can you discuss any upcoming projects or exhibitions you’re excited about?
I’m excited about my upcoming solo exhibition, Chapter New, which opens on September 20th and 21st at the newly renovated ABV Gallery in East Atlanta Village. This is my first solo show in over a decade, so it’s a huge moment. The exhibition showcases a lot of new work, including paintings, sculptures, and some surprises I’ve been working on. The grand opening of the gallery is also a big milestone, and I can’t wait for people to experience the new space and the energy of the show.
