Pro Ice Hockey player Mike Wills, Macon Mayhem Defenseman: Artist on and off the Ice
Downtown Macon’s beauty is often overlooked by the people who call this town home. It’s nice to be reminded what a cool place this is by tourists and visitors. But it’s especially meaningful when it comes from someone who calls this place home. Mike Wills, a 25-year old rookie with the Southern Professional Hockey League team, recently relocated to Macon to play hockey and hasn’t been here long enough for the awe of downtown to go unnoticed. He is showcasing his vision at an art show at The SoChi Gallery on Saturday, April 2. The show will remain up for 2 weeks.
“This is kind of a dream come true,” Wills said. “It’s the first stepping stone to being a pro artist. I kind of could draw before I could talk.”
He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Oswego State in New York, and says he has a variety of artistic styles which will be on display in the show.
Mulberry & 2nd
“There’s a modern flair but also elements of impressionism,” he said. The show will display some of the cityscapes he has done since coming to Macon to play for the Mayhem. “I want to let the people see things they are familiar with and get the viewers intrigued.”
Poplar Street
With his lifelong fascination with art, Wills discovered oil painting in high school with the help of his art teacher. He then developed his skill and technique in college. It is something, just like his play on the ice, he strives to improve with every stroke of the brush.
He credits SoChi Gallery owner Terrell Sandefur for boosting his budding art career, much as early hockey coaches helped him on the ice.
“No, I did not,” Sandefur said when discussing if he ever thought he would ever be featuring a hockey playing artist. “But I think it’s very cool. And he’s a very talented artist.
“When Mike came in I didn’t know he was with the Macon Mayhem,” Sandefur said.
“One, I’m a fan of the team,” he explained for his rationale in booking the Wills’ display. “And two, I like partnerships and am very happy to partner with the Macon Mayhem on this show.”
He joked that he isn’t sure if Wills is a hockey player who paints, or if he is an artist who plays hockey. “That’s the question,” he laughed. “For this show, he’s an artist who plays hockey.”
DOWNTOWN
Art works by Mayhem defenseman Mike Wills
presented by Macon Mayhem & The SoChi Gallery
Opening Exhibit & Art Sale
April 2 – 16, 2016
The SoChi Gallery
534 Second Street
Macon, GA 31201
For private appointments, click HERE