Mike Hirshon: Meme Artist 99

Michael Hirshon is a versatile freelance illustrator and an esteemed Assistant Professor of Illustration. He holds impressive academic credentials, with a BFA in Visual Communication and Psychology from Washington University in St. Louis and an MFA in Illustration as Visual Essay from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. Over the past decade, he has developed a diverse portfolio, working with a wide array of prestigious clients such as The New York Times, HarperCollins Publishers, Amazon, The Washington Post, Forbes, and American Express. His distinctive work has received recognition from several respected industry organizations including the Society of Illustrators, American Illustration, Spectrum, CMYK, and 3x3.

Hirshon's passion for illustration extends beyond traditional formats as he continually seeks out unusual avenues for visual storytelling. This exploratory spirit has led him to collaborate on varied projects such as packaging for a dog toy company, a taco truck chef's cookbook, a dating coach's graphic memoir, a US Senate campaign, and even the walls of a daycare in Pakistan.

In addition to his commercial work, Hirshon has a deep personal commitment to documenting his surroundings and observations through on-location drawings in his sketchbook. He has traveled extensively throughout his career, always with a sketchbook in hand, using drawing as a tool to slow down, meditate on, and engage deeply with new experiences. This personal work has evolved into an exploration of cultural differences, anxieties, and unfamiliar sensations, reflecting his constant engagement with the world around him and his commitment to visual storytelling in all its forms.

We are thrilled to welcome Mike to The Memes and look forward to how his illustrious style will play out within the project's vision.