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ABOUT THE ARTIST

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Mike O'Brien is an award-winning illustrator and educator with almost two decades of experience bringing ideas to life for big-name clients like Nike, American Eagle, and Topps Trading Cards. 

Mike O'Brien was born and raised in Hagerstown, Maryland, where his artistic journey began with the love and support of his family. He pursued his passion for illustration at the Savannah College of Art and Design, earning both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree with honors in 2009.

 

After graduating, Mike moved to Columbus, Ohio, where he spent a decade sharpening his design chops as a Graphic Designer and Illustrator for major retail players like Hollister Co. and Abercrombie & Fitch.

In 2017, Mike swapped the corporate grind for a more independent path, founding his studio, Wheelhouse Art. Since then, he’s been creating custom artwork for big-name clients such as Nike, American Eagle, Topps Trading Cards, and Wrangler, along with private commissions that showcase his knack for blending creative vision with technical skill.

In 2021, Mike returned to beautiful Savannah with his family, taking on a new role as an Professor at his alma mater, the Savannah College of Art and Design. Today, he’s just as passionate about shaping the next generation of artists as he is about pushing the boundaries of his own creative work.

PROFESSIONAL COLLABORATIONS

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EXHIBITIONS & EDITORIALS

2023-24   |   TOPPS UEFA LIVING SET  |  Featured Illustrator

2021   |   CREATIVE QUARTERLY 61  |  Illustration Runner-Up

2020   |   NEGRO LEAGUE BASEBALL MUSEUM ART SHOW  |  Featured Artist

2020   |   DIRECTORY OF ILLUSTRATION  |   Featured Illustrator

2020   |   ASSOCIATION OF ILLUSTRATORS   |   Featured Illustrator

2020   |   ART HOLE MAGAZINE  |   June Issue  |   Featured Illustrator

2020   |   GREY CUBE GALLERY  |   Virtual Portrait Show  |   Certificate of Merit

2019   |   BLOCK FORT GALLERY  |   Columbus, OH  |  The Great Portrait Show  
 

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