Mark Hoefling

Principal at Richard Mark Fine Art

Michael's art is a very unique point of view that usually makes me say to myself. I never really thought about it that way. His art produces an observation that is worth considering. His work is sometimes profound, sometimes ironic, sometimes comedic but always interesting. He is driven to master the tools and techniques of his art - like a dedicated musician that is always practicing his instrument. He uses his acquired skill sets to produce one of a kind sculptures — some are little jazz riffs and some are very fine symphonies but they are always thought provoking.

Dr. Hariclia Hristea

Psychiatry

His art is a reminder that every day, when I work with patients, creativity is a deeply healing, profoundly human resource that connects us and makes our lives rich. I hope you will enjoy his art, as much as I do. He is one of a kind!

William Krypel

Fine Art Instructor at Leyden High Schools District 212

Michael's work has the rare quality of being extremely playful and immensely serious at the same time. One sees the playful irony of life and the other sees how ironic it is to not participate in life the way Michael does.

Jimmy MacMillan

Co-Owner at JMPurePastry

Our group has had the pleasure to work with Michael frequently over the past seven years. His artwork is thought-provoking and technically immaculate. Michael's insight regarding material use has resulted in the flawless execution of many unique works.

Hon. Richard E. Neville

Mediator and Arbitrator

When Michael and I met twenty years ago, I soon realized his intense commitment to his craft and we ultimately ended up working on many projects together. With my career being deeply rooted in law, I especially enjoyed each moment I had in the art studio with Michael as it was a time for me to be exposed to various skills and philosophies in creating art. Eventually, we set up a small studio on the south side of Chicago where he taught me the discipline required to develop strong creative concepts, how to handle new mediums all while giving the balanced attention to structure and color for creating a sculpture. He helped me understand the difference between being a dilettante and the commitment to a life devoted to creating thought provoking artwork. Michael has the ability to see what I am trying to express while struggling to find it for myself and has focused me on the life quest of never discounting a new concept or new idea without giving it a chance to enter my subconscious before I decide if I like it or understand it.

Chris Newman

Sculptor & Facilities Planner at Chris Newman Sculpture

Michael's imaging and technical expertise conveys a wealth of inter-personal, idiosyncratic and expository expressions that tantalize and inform. I've watched him blossom as an artist, as well as an entrepreneur. In both areas, he has been a success in finding and developing his talent with initial and lasting enthusiasm and energy.

Yosef Pollack

Owner at Acupuncture Points

Joy delivers poignant expressions of resolve, intrigue, instigating wonder. Not only of what's next, rather what puzzle lies within each work of his art. Gathered into folds of beauty only to be awed by the message. Enjoy!

Hon. Karen G. Shields (Ret.)

Mediator and Arbitrator

I live with Michael's Evolution and I love it. Every time I look at it, I begin to think about different meanings from fun to serious.

Beatrice Schnieder

Creative Director at Chicago School of Mold Making

Michael is most powerful in his art work. It is refreshing and timeless. It reminds us of discovery, of playing and finding something new in the familiar. Even after living with several of his pieces for years, they still provide a deep sense of wonder and joy. His work evokes a playful spirit that heralds our life's progress and enriches our lives with wonder and possibility.

Dr. Theresa M. Schultz

TMS Psychological Services

To me, Michael's artistry and craftsmanship reflect subtlety and nuance in both the contemplative and playful nature of his creative work. Michael's art is an invitation to sample what the viewer finds to be emotionally evocative, thereby sharing in the elemental narrative of each piece.

Roberto Seif

Brand Marketing Manager

Unlike those artists who delight in taking us through a tour of their tormented existence, Michael tells stories that are uplifting and lighthearted. I couldn't expect anything else from an artist whose last name is Joy.

David Snow

Telecom Utility Expert Retired Military

Michael's work, while whimsical, also makes a wonderful statement about the way we view the things in our world. The inevitable initial smile always seems to give way to contemplation about the possibilities of a deeper meaning. It's just fabulous stuff!

Edie Stitch Cooley-Moo-Mahmoosil

Office Cat

I sit on his work all the time.

Julian Paul Fox Possum

Office Cat

His fish imagery is marvelous.