Mike Hinson, Delaware College of Art and Design (DCAD)

At age 24, illustrator and comic artist Mike Hinson is already causing a big splash in the world of pop culture illustration.

Born in Wilmington, Delaware, Mike was drawn to the Delaware College of Art and Design (DCAD) because of its small size and sense of community.  He was especially enticed by the growing Wilmington arts scene and the opportunities for exposure in downtown Wilmington’s multiple galleries.  An Illustration major, Mike earned his Associates of Fine Arts degree from DCAD in 2011.  According to Mike “All of the instructors at DCAD were great- Alexi [Natchev, Area Coordinator of Illustration] and John [Breakey, Area Coordinator of Graphic Design] are still two of my favorite teachers of all time, and all are amazing artists in their own right.” Mike then transferred to Pratt Institute to earn his Bachelor’s in Illustration, graduating in 2014.

Currently residing in Brooklyn, NY, Mike works as an illustrator for Buzzfeed.com’s BFF team, who create content specifically for social media accounts. “BuzzFeed is a super fun environment to work in and a great platform for illustrators, as you are provided a ton of creative freedom and access to a giant audience that will get to see your original work every day.”  Mike’s work centers on a humorous and character driven style that takes influence from pop culture.  Recently, he has been working on a series of comics for Buzzfeed BFF called “Lizard Wizard” and was involved in illustrating for the launch of a social media campaign focusing on black culture called “Cocoa Butter.” Along with friend Tony Lewis, Mike has developed an art collective called “Set Trip,” with work recently displayed at the Chris White Galleries in downtown Wilmington, Delaware.  Mike also regularly participates in shows in Brooklyn and  is very much looking forward to releasing a brand new comic book/zine in September of 2015.

Truly an artist to watch, Mike’s hilarious illustrations are popping up all over the social media realm.  For more information on Mike’s work, visit: www.Hinsonmike.com.