Mike Perry

How would you describe what you do for a living?

Dreamer with follow through.

You own your own studio. What would you tell anyone aspiring to be in your shoes?

Hustle!

What was your major and how did you choose it?

Graphic Design. Graphic design represented endless creative possibilities.

Did you receive any scholarships? How did that impact you?

Yes. It made me feel like someone believed in me and my work. It felt massive and still does.

Tell us about your internship.

I interned with Russell Hrachovec ’99 in Brighton, England in his one person studio. It was incredibly inspirational. We sat in his little office listening to music, just making all day. I knew I was in love with the endless possibilities of being a graphic designer.

What inspires you?

Everything.

Anything you're obsessed with right now?

Cooking.

How do you feel about the Twin Cities?

Loved living there.

Where do you live now?

Brooklyn.

How do you network yourself and your art?

Go outside. Talk to people. Stay active.

Your biggest takeaway from MCAD?

It's all about putting in the hours.

What advice do you have for current MCAD students?

"Every time you eat pizza, remember that you are going to be paying off that pizza for a very long time." —Namdev Hardisty ’03