NEW YORK, NY.- Jay Mikals art isnt just a visual experience; its an invitation to explore the spiritual, cosmic, and deeply personal dimensions of existence. Known for his
vibrant, mixed-media pieces that incorporate everything from resin to taxidermy, Mikals work blurs the line between art and spiritual practice. For him, creativity is more than a skillits a divine calling.
In this interview, Mikal shares insights into his process, inspirations, and the transformative journey that led him from the corporate world to becoming a celebrated artist. From the meticulous selection of materials to the infusion of spiritual energy into every piece, Mikals art reflects a unique vision fueled by faith, devotion, and a fascination with the mysteries of the universe.
The Cosmic Inspirations Behind Mikel Mikals Art
Mikals artistic journey is deeply rooted in his fascination with space and spirituality. His works often feature galaxy-like explosions of stars and meteorites, capturing the vastness of the cosmos while reflecting his own spiritual beliefs.
My inspiration comes from God, the Universe, and the galaxy, Mikal explains. The themes of space and the unknown will always show up in my work because they remind me of the infinite possibilities of creation.
This cosmic influence is evident in the materials he chooses. Mikal frequently incorporates precious stones, gold flakes, and resin into his pieces, giving them a tactile, multidimensional quality. Each element is carefully selected, often during moments of what he calls divine guidance.
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The Creative Process: A Dance of Intuition and Action
For Mikal, creating art is as much about listening as it is about doing. His process begins with a seemingly spontaneous but spiritually guided collection of materials.
When I feel truly inspired, I gather materials that complement paintings that dont even exist yet, he says. The process varies with each piece, but I always end by saging the artwork, setting it in the sun, and letting it breathe. Its a way of infusing the piece with positive energy.
Mikels methods are unconventional but deeply personal. He uses torches to melt certain materials and resin to seal others, allowing the physical qualities of each medium to shape the final composition. This intuitive approach, he says, keeps the work authentic and connected to its spiritual origins.
Mixed Media: The Freedom to Explore
While some artists stick to traditional mediums, Mikal thrives on the versatility of mixed media. For him, the freedom to incorporate a wide range of materialsacrylics, taxidermy, resinallows for boundless creative expression.
I love being able to explore limitless creative options, Mikal says. It keeps my process open and unrestricted.
This freedom extends to the way he conceptualizes his pieces. Mikal doesnt overplan or overthink; instead, he lets inspiration guide him. I create from a place of inspired action, he explains. When I trust that process, the results are always better than when I try to control every detail.
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Reinvention: From Corporate Life to Creative Fulfillment
Mikals path to becoming a full-time artist wasnt linear. For over 15 years, he worked in digital marketing and advertising for major companies like Sony Music and Nike. But despite his professional success, he felt unfulfilled.
The corporate world was exhausting and uninspiring, he admits. When my last job ended unexpectedly, I took it as a sign to pursue something completely different.
With no formal training in art, Mikal took a leap of faith. He poured his savings into materials and turned his studio into a laboratory for experimentation. I treated it like play, he recalls. I constructed and deconstructed canvases until I found my voice.
The Power of Faith, Vision, and Devotion
Three qualities define Mikals success: vision, faith, and devotion. His vision stems from a practice of prayer and meditation, which he says helps him receive creative downloads from the universe. Faith, on the other hand, gives him the courage to pursue his artistic calling, even in uncertain times.
Before I completed my first painting, I spent thousands of dollars on materials because I believed in the vision, he says. I had no idea if it would work out, but I felt guided to take the risk.
Devotion is perhaps the most visible aspect of Mikals work ethic. When inspiration strikes, he drops everything to create. Sometimes Ill work through the night for an entire week, he says. When youre in the flow, you have to honor it.
The Role of Community and Support
Mikal credits much of his success to the support of his manager, Danielle Montreuil. She believed in me when I only had a few pieces, he says. Her guidance helped open doors to galleries, investors, and publications.
The positive feedback from his audience has also been a source of motivation. Mikal recalls his first major art show in Miami, where he showcased 20 pieces, including five created specifically for the event. Connecting with people who saw my vision was incredibly humbling, he says. It solidified my belief that I was on the right path.
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Advice for Aspiring Artists
Mikals journey has taught him valuable lessons about creativity and perseverance. His top advice? Dont force the process.
Only create from a place of inspired action, he says. When you feel that burst of energy, tap into it and let it guide you.
He also encourages aspiring artists to avoid comparing themselves to others. Inspiring art comes from unique perspectives, he says. Stay true to your vision and trust that your audience will find you.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Mikal hopes to expand his reach by collaborating with other artists and creating large-scale installations. Hes particularly interested in exploring the concept of angel numbersrepeating number sequences that he believes hold spiritual significance.
Id love to create installations that draw attention to the hidden messages in these numbers, he says. Its a way of reminding people that theyre not alone and that divine support is always around them.