Artists of Todos Santos

Mike is likely Todos Santo’s only artist working exclusively in pastels.  His passion for this medium goes back a great number of years even though his conversion to all pastels only came about roughly twenty years ago.  “It makes for a pretty simple studio set-up,” says Mike, “just good lights, an adjustable easel so I can work from nearly vertical to nearly flat, depending on what I’m doing, and some table space.  Of course, a few hundred pastel sticks, my favorite papers and several large clip boards are needed as well.” 

“In the studio I usually work sitting down with my pastels to my right and a large rag in my lap.  A white butcher tray serves as a sort of palette where I put the sticks I am currently using.” He continues, “Then there is usually music playing and plenty of fresh air.  While modern pastels are non-toxic for the most part, there is still a lot of dust associated with using them and I try to keep the studio well ventilated with open windows and a fan.”

Mike’s studio is about 200 sq. ft.  There are color-correct lights suspended from the high ceiling the entire length of the room and all of the table lamps have color-correct bulbs.  A large, counter-height  table provides him with space for laying out work and for framing, which he does himself.  Overhead storage bins hold papers and mat boards.  And, if he needs a break, the other end of the room is his personal gym/training room space.

Nido de la Garza Sur Estudio may be visited by appointment only.  Email Mike at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call his cell phone at 044-612-152-6166.