Meet Michael Hellem
We were lucky to catch up with Michael Hellem recently, and we have shared our conversation below.
Michael, so excited to have you with us today. There is so much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
For me, creativity is like a living organism—it needs nurturing, care, and the right environment to thrive. Over the years, I’ve learned that keeping my creativity alive isn’t about waiting for inspiration to strike; it’s about creating habits and environments that encourage creativity to flourish.
One of the most powerful ways I’ve found to keep my creativity alive is through continuous learning and curiosity. I make it a point to explore new fields, whether it’s a different art form, a new book genre, or even a cooking class. This constant influx of new information and experiences fuels my creative process, providing fresh perspectives and ideas that I can incorporate into my work.
Another key practice is surrounding myself with a community of creative individuals. Engaging in discussions, collaborating on projects, and simply being around others who are passionate about their craft pushes me to think differently and stretch my own creative limits. It’s in these interactions that I often find the spark for my next big idea.
Additionally, I’ve found that stepping away from the work is just as important as diving into it. Taking time to rest, reflect, and engage in non-creative activities often leads to the most unexpected bursts of creativity. It’s during a walk in nature or while listening to music that my mind makes connections it wouldn’t have made while sitting at a desk.
Lastly, I’ve learned the importance of discipline in the creative process. I set aside time every day to create, regardless of whether I feel inspired. This regular practice not only hones my skills but also signals to my mind that creativity isn’t just a fleeting moment—it’s a habit that I cultivate daily.
By staying curious, engaging with a creative community, giving myself the space to reflect, and maintaining a disciplined practice, I keep my creativity alive and thriving. It’s a continuous journey, but one that I find endlessly rewarding.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
It’s a privilege to connect through art and to continue growing this journey with an audience who values depth, connection, and the beauty of vulnerability in artistry. My work centers around the intricate beauty of landscapes, brought to life through the detail and patience of pointillism. I’m fascinated by how small, distinct points of color can form a cohesive scene that captures the essence of a place—whether it’s an open field or the subtle play of light over mountains.
Pointillism allows me to explore texture and movement, inviting viewers to experience nature’s complexity from new perspectives. Up close, it’s a sea of dots and patterns; as you step back, it transforms into a harmonious, vibrant landscape. This approach reflects how I view the world—an intricate blend of detail forming a captivating larger picture.
As I continue developing my work, I’m excited to experiment with new landscapes, color palettes, and perspectives, evoking the vastness and serenity of the natural world. My brand is about sharing this connection to landscapes through a meticulous yet lively approach, inviting viewers to appreciate both the small and grand elements in art.
In addition to my art, I’m thrilled to offer a range of experiences right here in the heart of Miami. We host art classes, painting parties, and have a dedicated studio space where people can come to create, learn, and connect. It’s a welcoming environment that encourages creativity and community, allowing participants to dive into the art world and explore their own unique perspectives.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, I’d say the three most impactful qualities have been patience, perspective, and technical precision. Each of these has played a pivotal role in shaping my approach to art and has helped me develop my unique style and voice.
1. Patience: Pointillism and landscape art both require an immense amount of patience. Building a piece one dot at a time demands a steady hand and an ability to focus on the process, not just the outcome. For anyone starting out, embracing patience can be transformative. It allows you to be fully present in each step of the creative process, ultimately making your work more intentional and thoughtful. My advice? Try not to rush. Give yourself the space and time to enjoy every small mark or stroke; over time, your patience will deepen, and your work will reflect it.
2. Perspective: Perspective is essential, both in terms of technique and mindset. In art, perspective helps to create depth and dimension. In life, perspective allows you to see challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth. Developing this quality can help emerging artists stay grounded and see their work in the larger context of their journey. I recommend regularly stepping back—physically and mentally—to assess your work from different angles. Whether it’s re-evaluating a piece or rethinking an approach, perspective helps to shape a more holistic view of your art and its impact.
For anyone beginning their artistic journey, remember that these qualities aren’t achieved overnight—they’re developed slowly, one piece at a time. Embrace the learning process, and trust that your dedication will shape your path and ultimately define your art.
Alright, so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
Throughout my journey, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have the guidance and support of many remarkable individuals, but if I had to single out one person, it would undoubtedly be my mentor, Antonio del Moral. His steadfast belief in my potential and his gentle yet persistent encouragement to push beyond my comfort zone have been pivotal in my growth. Antonio has been more than a mentor; he has been a true pillar of support, offering insightful feedback, connecting me with valuable opportunities, and simply being there to listen during challenging moments.
Through his mentorship, Antonio has not only helped me refine my skills and expand my knowledge but also instilled a deep-seated confidence that empowers me to pursue my ambitions with resilience and determination. His influence has been instrumental in shaping both my artistic path and my belief in what’s possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://adelmogallery.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mike.hellem/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/galeriaadelmo
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-hellem-a210a9271
- Twitter: https://x.com/Hellem1Mike