Roland Mikhail is a multi-talented artist who resides in the vibrant neighborhood of Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Beyond being a painter and sculptor, he is also an esteemed educator and holds the esteemed rank of Brazilian Jujitsu blackbelt. Roland’s creative journey unfolds within the intersection of these diverse disciplines, shaping his unique artistic perspective.
As an educator, Roland shares his expertise with aspiring artists at Pratt Institute, nurturing the next generation of creative minds. Additionally, he holds the esteemed position of being an artist in residence at the North American Sculpture Center, allowing him to delve further into his artistic practice and push the boundaries of his craft.
Rooted in his heritage as the son of first-generation Egyptian immigrants, Roland’s artistic exploration centers around unearthing the hidden and shadowed aspects of his psyche, with a particular focus on mythology, symbolism, and the sacred. His work serves as a deep inquiry into these realms, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and introspection.
At the heart of Roland’s creative process lies the notion of the sacred object. Inspired by a wide array of cultural artifacts, from Australian aboriginal pointing bones to Tibetan mandalas and Navajo sand paintings, he recognizes the common thread that runs through them—devotional care in their creation. With this understanding as his foundation, Roland approaches his artistic practice with a similar sense of devotion and care, investing months and years into each piece. He firmly believes that time is a crucial ingredient in creating artwork that touches the soul, challenging the prevailing fast-paced art culture.
Through his meticulous and deliberate approach, Roland aims to create works that leave an indelible mark on viewers’ minds. He aspires to produce art that resonates deeply, transcending mere visual aesthetics to make a profound impact on the human psyche. By embracing the yielding required by ego and dedicating himself to something greater than himself, Roland’s artwork embodies a profound sense of purpose and captures the essence of the human experience.
With his unwavering dedication to his craft, Roland Mikhail stands poised to continue creating unforgettable works of art that connect with the world and leave an enduring imprint on the hearts and minds of those who encounter them.