Joe Mike Family Honors His 100th Birthday with Special Art Showing

The family of beloved and well known Livingston County artist, Joe Mike, is honoring what would have been Joe’s 100th birthday this month.  On Saturday, September 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., an eclectic showing of his work and a special gift to the community will happen at ArtVentures Gallery in downtown Brighton.  

The family will be giving away two free historical prints to the first 100 people to come into ArtVentures that day.  They are also giving away Joe’s book, “My Life As An Artist”, with the purchase of an additional $25 dollar print.

Joe’s historical paintings of Brighton and the courthouse in Howell are the most popular and widespread of his paintings.  After retiring from Burroughs Corporation, Joe spent much of his time painting for enjoyment.  He loved painting horses most of all, but his work included beautiful landscapes, animals and homesteads.  In 2004, at the age of 90 his book went to print.  It is a relatable, heartfelt autobiography filled with Joe’s original drawings and paintings.

Joe came out to the Brighton area in the 1930’s as an employee of Burroughs Corporation when Burroughs had property where Oak Pointe is now.  Irene, Joe’s wife of 73 years explained that they loved the area so much that they decided they were going to retire here and bought a home near that area in 1972.  Joe retired from Burroughs in 1978.

Mark Gougherty of ArtVentures explained, “When we first started our business in 1978, we met Joe and Irene and they instantly became our friends.  He taught watercolor painting in our business at the time and was always excited to show us his newest creation.  We are honored to help Joe’s family with this celebration of his birthday.  He touched the lives of many people in a very positive way.”

Original paintings will be on display as well as Joe’s prints and book.  

For more information contact ArtVentures at 810-229-3100.