Michael Ortiz a.k.a “ILLSON” is a seasoned mural artist, fine art painter, and printmaker. For over two decades Michael’s vibrant works have enriched cultural landscapes across Colorado, the United States, Jamaica, and England. Originally from Pueblo, Colorado, Michael brings a rich heritage to his style, blending urban energy, unique perspective, and a profound appreciation for natural beauty.
With a career spanning 20+ years, ILLSON has developed a diverse portfolio that includes large murals, intricate prints, and evocative fine art paintings. His work is celebrated for its dynamic use of color and perspective, unique attention to detail, and striking portrayal of the human experience.
Michael’s murals adorn dozens of public and private spaces across Denver and the U.S., transforming ordinary walls into vibrant canvases that engage and inspire their communities. His commitment to public art is evident in collaborations with local artists, organizations, schools, and businesses, making art accessible and integral to the urban environment.
In addition to his large-scale works, Michael excels in creating original paintings and print work. His work is known for precision, texture, and the ability to translate complex themes into visually stunning pieces. His skill set bridges the gap between traditional techniques and contemporary aesthetics, and showcases a mastery that appeals to collectors and street art enthusiasts alike.
As a fine art painter, Michael explores a wide range of subjects and styles, from abstract compositions to realistic portrayals. His paintings are a testament to a lifelong dedication to craft, each one reflecting an evolving journey of self-expression and technical prowess.
Most recently, Michael has been experimenting with large-scale and three-dimensional sculpture work, collaborating with local artists, architects, and fabricators to bring his designs into a new dimension. He hopes to continue and expand this work, using sustainable design, reusable materials, and modern technology to push the boundaries of his art.
Michael’s work has been exhibited in numerous galleries and art shows in the United States and England, earning accolades and a dedicated following. His artistic contributions continue to shape Denver’s vibrant art scene, leaving a lasting legacy of creativity and inspiration — and always a pop of color.
For more information or to view Michael’s portfolio, please visit michaelortizart.com or IG page @ILLSON.
Artist Statement
As an artist, my work explores the intersection of abstraction, geometry, and community. I am driven by the belief that art is not just a personal expression but a means of connecting with others, a way to communicate ideas that transcend language and culture. Through abstract geometric painting, community murals, fine art, and 3D sculpture, I seek to create spaces where people can engage, reflect, and connect.
My abstract geometric paintings are a study in form, color, and balance. I am fascinated by the way simple shapes can be arranged and combined to evoke complex emotions and ideas. Geometry, with its inherent order and precision, provides a framework within which I can explore the tensions between chaos and control, fluidity and structure. My work often plays with contrasts—bold colors against muted tones, sharp angles against soft curves—to create a dynamic visual experience. I am particularly interested in how these compositions can invoke a sense of movement and energy, encouraging viewers to find their own meaning within the work.
In my community murals, I aim to bring art out of the gallery and into the public sphere. These works are collaborative by nature, created with input and participation from the communities they inhabit. Each mural is a reflection of the people and the place, a visual narrative that captures the unique spirit of the community. Through these projects, I hope to foster a sense of ownership and pride, transforming public spaces into vibrant, living canvases that tell the stories of the people who live there.
My fine art practice allows me to delve deeper into the themes that drive my work—identity, connection, and transformation. Here, I experiment with different mediums and techniques, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Whether through painting, drawing, or mixed media, I strive to create pieces that challenge perceptions and invite contemplation.
Relief paintings and 3D sculpture are an aspect of my artistic practice that I have begun developing. Working in three dimensions allows me to engage with space and form in a tactile, physical way. My sculptures often draw on the same geometric principles as my paintings but are brought to life through the interplay of light, shadow, and material. These works invite viewers to interact, to move around them, and to experience them from different perspectives.
Ultimately, my work is about creating connections—between shapes and colors, between people and places, and between ideas and emotions. Through my art, I hope to inspire others to see the world in new ways, to find beauty in the abstract, and to recognize the power of community.