Greg Mike, a visual artist and founder of ABV Gallery, discusses his creative journey, the challenges of building a gallery in Atlanta, and preparing for his solo exhibition. He shares insights on finding joy in the creative process, balancing personal and professional life, and fostering community through collaboration.

Here’s what we discuss:

1. The rewarding yet challenging process of opening a new gallery space in Atlanta, emphasizing the role of art as a sanctuary during stressful times.

2. The evolution of Greg’s work from dark themes to brighter, more positive messages, reflecting personal and artistic growth.

3. The significance of collaboration and community engagement in shaping his career and supporting other artists.

4. The importance of embracing failure as part of the creative process and finding joy in the journey rather than the destination.

About Greg -
Born and raised in Connecticut, childhood trips to NYC exposed "Greg Mike" Mensching to the creative potential of reinventing public spaces through art and design. Always obsessed with the boundless energy and crisp line work of iconic American mid-century cartoons, by his early teens Greg began using the walls on the streets to fuse these two passions together. Further inspired by his deep involvement with skate culture and his intersections with the design world, he has become known for pieces that incorporate vivid explosions of incandescent color filtered through a Surrealist Pop Art perspective.

Currently based in Atlanta, Greg Mike is the founder and creative director of ABV AGENCY, a multi-platform creative studio specializing in graphic design, street art and public art, custom mural installations, art direction and more. Greg Mike is also the founder and curator of ABV GALLERY, a contemporary art gallery with a brand new location in East Atlanta Village. ABV Gallery exhibits over 500+ artists from around the world featuring both emerging and established artists with a focus on the New Contemporary movement.

Founded in 2010, ABV Gallery has become a cornerstone of Atlanta's thriving art community, showcasing works of art that challenge and inspire visitors. In 2015, Greg Mike founded OuterSpace Project, an event series that merges public art, live music, design, action sports and culture which has produced over 100+ murals throughout the city of Atlanta.

Website:gregmike.com
IG: @gregmike

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