Throughout his life, Mik Strevens has been an imaginative spirit, drawing inspiration from the teachings of his father, who introduced him to the art of sketching everything from horses to Mickey Mouse and instilled in him a deep appreciation for the natural world. His backyard expeditions transformed the forest behind his childhood home into a wild safari of discovery, observing and understanding nature in its purest form.
Although digital art is Mik's dominant medium, his portfolio is diverse, encompassing photorealistic illustrations, restoration of aged or damaged photos, and the fusion of multiple photographs with textures to produce unique Grunge art or Fine art photography.
Photography was a discipline Mik delved into during his school years, cultivating a passion that still burns brightly. His photographs were never merely snapshots; they were starting points for exploration, requiring further refinement in the darkroom to enhance their appeal or offer a unique perspective. His dedication to the craft was such that he spent his free periods in the photography department during his sixth form, even assisting in the construction of a darkroom and a cinema.
Adulthood for Mik has been a journey filled with photographic pursuits, but it was challenged in 2010 when he was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. The progressive illness has been a constant struggle, both physically and emotionally, but it was a thoughtful gift from his wife, a digital SLR camera, that sparked a resurgence of his artistic fervour. This transition to digital art was a revelation, helping him overcome mobility limitations, allowing him to delve into his 'virtual shed' of creativity, and providing him with a sanctuary of escape and expression.
Emerging from those testing times, Mik stands stronger, now equipped with a resilient mindset and a renewed passion for life. He believes in the boundless nature of his abilities, no longer tethered by the fear of failure that once held him back. He asserts, “I have learned that I am capable of anything I set my mind to, no longer shackled by the fear of failure, the one thing that hindered my progress before.”