Ever since he was a child, art has been a necessity for Mike. He sees it as a means of storytelling. Drawing from personal experiences, both difficult and inspiring, D’Amelio engages directly with his audience, inviting them into his complex world and allowing them to make their own associations.

While attending SUNY Purchase College for Fine Arts on scholarship, D’Amelio found himself drawn to abstract expressionism and neo-dadaism. Not wanting to be bound to any medium or movement he began experimenting with a combination of painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, design and collage to find his voice. His work was exhibited in numerous student  shows, and he graduated near the top of his class. 

After college, D’Amelio continued experimenting with his art while carving out a very successful career in Design. He also served as a member of the Board of Directors for The Ray Light Foundation, which provides art scholarships to at-risk youths. Learning the children’s stories behind their work inspired him to take a more psychological approach to his creative process and muses. 

It was in 2016 with the birth of his daughter that D’Amelio’s artwork really found its voice. Fascinated by the innocence and freedom she had on a canvas, new creative doors opened from within. 

Today D’Amelio is consistently producing his best work. Using mixed media, his ghost-like creatures have an uncontrollable energy that blur good versus evil while creating a strange sense of sanctuary. You almost can’t look away.