Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Hellem
Hi Michael, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Our home art gallery and garden artist studio celebrated over a decade of operating in Miami, Florida this past year. Surviving through the onslaught of Covid and other challenges, we have continued to offer artistic services to a wide audience of art enthusiasts.
In addition to my painting pursuit, we are thrilled to offer a range of artistic experiences right here in the heart of Miami. We host individual and group art classes, and painting parties, and have a dedicated Garden Artist Studio space where people can come to create, learn, and connect.
Our upscale creative environment hosts solo and group art exhibitions that offer an inviting venue for our guests. It’s a welcoming atmosphere that encourages creativity and community, allowing participants to dive into the art world and explore their unique perspectives and interests.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In May 2024, what began as a routine upper endoscopy led to an unexpected discovery—adenocarcinoma at the junction of my esophagus and stomach. While the diagnosis was daunting, it set me on a transformative journey toward healing and resilience. Seeking the best possible care, I transitioned all my cancer treatments to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, where I became part of the University of Miami’s specialized esophageal oncology team.
By late November, I successfully completed eight bi-weekly chemotherapy infusions, and in early 2025, I underwent a complex yet successful esophagectomy. My remarkable surgical team removed my esophagus and repositioned my stomach to ensure proper function. Today, I am thrilled to share that my oncology team has confirmed—I am 100% cancer-free!
Beyond medical treatments, I embraced Sylvester Cancer Center’s extensive support services, which played a crucial role in my recovery. From nutrition counseling and exercise physiology to art and music therapy, yoga, physical and massage therapy, acupuncture, and patient support groups; these holistic therapies have empowered me to regain strength and well-being. Even now, I continue to benefit from these invaluable services as part of my ongoing post-cancer care, ensuring a strong, healthy future, and continuing a robust passion for serving our art audience locally and globally.
Though I have conquered cancer, my journey doesn’t end here. In collaboration with Sylvester’s Cancer Research team, we are producing a video presentation documenting my cancer journey—from diagnosis to recovery milestones. This project includes interviews with my oncology surgeons, doctors, and specialized therapists, offering insight and inspiration to others navigating similar paths.
Through it all, I have remained dedicated to promoting Galeria Adelmo, fostering new connections and opportunities for art sales, painting lessons, and painting parties. My connections within the University of Miami and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center have opened doors to exciting collaborations and strengthened professional relationships, proving that even in the face of adversity, growth and creativity can thrive.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Creativity isn’t something that simply appears—it’s a force that demands attention, cultivation, and an environment where it can thrive. As both an artist and an art gallery business operator, I’ve learned that inspiration isn’t a waiting game; it’s a practice, a discipline, and a commitment to artistic exploration.
To keep my creative energy vibrant, I immerse myself in new and dynamic artistic experiences. Whether I’m experimenting with an unconventional painting technique, collaborating with fellow artists in live painting sessions, or curating immersive group painting events, every moment of artistic engagement expands my creative vision. Each interaction, each brushstroke, and each shared perspective enriches my work, infusing it with new meaning and depth.
But creativity doesn’t exist in isolation—it thrives in community. That’s why I’m deeply involved in artistic collaborations, community projects, and the vibrant energy of local art fairs. Through Galeria Adelmo’s Home Gallery & Garden Artist Studio, I have the privilege of hosting exhibitions that not only showcase talent but also create a space where artists and art lovers connect, exchange ideas, and inspire one another. These moments of creative synergy challenge me to push beyond my boundaries, continually evolving both my artistic practice and my role as a curator of artistic expression.
For me, creativity is a living, breathing journey—one of relentless learning, meaningful connections, and the delicate balance of work, rest, and renewal. By embracing this journey with passion and purpose, I ensure that both my art and my business remain dynamic, ever-evolving, and deeply fulfilling.
What makes you happy?
Happiness for me is deeply intertwined with the creative journey of others. There is a profound sense of fulfillment in watching our students—whether first-time painters or seasoned artists—discover the joy of artistic expression. Seeing their confidence grow as they bring a blank canvas to life fills me with pride. Each brushstroke they make, each color they choose, is a testament to their evolving creativity. Whether in an intimate one-on-one lesson or a lively group setting, I find joy in witnessing their excitement as they unlock new artistic potential.
One of my greatest sources of happiness comes from the shared experiences within our art community. When a patron leaves a heartfelt, glowing review about their painting party at Galeria Adelmo, it’s more than just feedback—it’s a validation of the environment we’ve cultivated, where people feel inspired, welcomed, and creatively fulfilled. Their words remind me of the lasting impact art can have, not just as an activity, but as an experience that brings people together, making celebrations truly memorable.
Another moment of pure joy is capturing the energy of our Saturday Group Painting Sessions through short video reels. Watching our students immersed in their work, speaking about their love for painting, and sharing their enthusiasm. This brings me a deep sense of accomplishment. Their excitement is contagious, and their passion fuels my own drive to continue fostering this artistic haven.
Ultimately, happiness for me isn’t just about creating art—it’s about creating connections. It’s about seeing others find joy, confidence, and community through painting. Whether it’s through a single brushstroke, a shared experience, or a heartfelt review, every moment of artistic expression at Galeria Adelmo reinforces my belief in the transformative power of creativity.
Pricing:
- Giclee Fine Prints from $50 to $150.
- Original Paintings from $150 to $2,000
- Painting Classes (group or individual)- $40 per 3-hour personal instructions. All supplies are included for art students.
- Painting Party. $40 per participant for 3-hour personal instructions.-Client responsible for party décor and food & beverage..- Ten (10) person limit per event.
- Gift Certificates available through website.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://adelmogallery.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mike.hellem/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/galeriaadelmo
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-hellem-a210a9271
- Twitter: https://x.com/Hellem1Mike
Image Credits
All images were photographed by Michael Hellem.
