Check Out Mike Kraus’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Kraus. 

Hi Mike, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning my Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, I attended Grand Valley State University for my graduate degree. From there, I gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children’s Memorial Foundation. And every place I worked, I had my sketchbook with me and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, I became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, I have sold thousands of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I really can’t complain because I’ve been very fortunate. Sure, I’ve worried about finances, doubt, and have anxiety. But I have wonderful friends and a supportive family. And my wife’s continuous encouragement has made a dream come true. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Mostly, I’m a painter. But I do dabble in other areas like drawing, music, and writing. And I’m part of a group looking for ways to improve our quality of life at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/305635098251133/ 

My specialty is bright, bold landscapes. 

It’s been an amazing experience to share my creations with the world and to build my own little empire. An unexpected benefit has been developing a community of like-minded friends. Bringing together people who want more beauty in the world. And trying to find small ways to improve our homes, neighborhoods, help each other during COVID-19, and support our friends in the Ukraine. It’s been fulfilling in many ways. 

It’s my sense of empathy. When I worked at the Children’s Memorial Hospital (now Lurie’s Children’s Hospital) in Chicago, I was fortunate enough to participate in an art therapy session. It was as simple as drawing with a little girl with a horrific disease. She was battling an unimaginable pain and made wonderfully happy pieces about her family, unicorns, and what she’d like to do when she’s all better. That’s when I truly understood the power of art. In her extreme suffering, she was able to find relief by allowing her emotions to be vulnerable on paper. So, I continue to explore that. There is so much pain outside of hospitals too. 

So, I’m always listening and looking for ways to provide relief. 

What was you like growing up?
I was in the local music scene of Muskegon, Michigan. For my friends and I, it consumed all of our time, thoughts, and energy. We’d see local bands several times a week and travel regularly to see bigger acts in Chicago, Detroit, and various college towns. We created a ‘zine to share our world. I joined several bands and booked shows all over the place. I learned a lot of promotion by making flyers, posters, and album covers. All of which lead to being accepted at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. 

Contact Info:

• Website: MikeKrausArt.etsy.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/mikekrausart
• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MikeKrausArt
• Other: http://www.pinterest.com/MikeKraus/

Image Credits
Mike Kraus Art Inc.