Michael’s career spans a diverse array of creative and organizational roles. A founding member of Teknova Productions, he played a key role in bringing major electronic music acts to Cleveland in the late 1990s. As a production manager, he facilitated high-profile events such as the Sundance Film Festival, Independent Spirit Awards, Promax Marketing Convention, and People’s Choice Awards, working directly with vendors and managing audio-visual logistics.
As a gallery owner and curator, Michael founded 2020 W. Schaaf Gallery+Studio in Cleveland’s Old Brooklyn neighborhood, where he showcased works by leading regional artists across all mediums. His gallery earned acclaim, including nominations by Cleveland Scene as one of the area’s best. During the 2020 pandemic, he organized Front Lawn Classical Music Concerts across Cleveland to support local musicians, including those from Opus 216.
Currently based in Lakewood and Cleveland, Michael works from his private studios, exploring graffiti, abstract, and non-representational art. A former member of the Hildebrandt Artist Collective, his creative practice reflects his dedication to fostering artistic expression and community engagement.