Daily Inspiration: Meet Mike Gotti

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Gotti

Hi Mike, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am a graphic designer, visual artist, and creative director, and I have a lot of roles now, but I have always been an artist. Ever since I was younger, I enjoyed drawing, using Microsoft Paint, and designing MySpace profiles. I really started my graphic design journey in 2015 at the end of my junior year of high school when my friends started making music. I have always loved music but couldn’t see myself behind a mic at the time, so I began to design cover art for their songs.

Then I started to do some cover art for more local artists around the city. I wasn’t charging much—sometimes for free or just $20. I didn’t really think I could make much of it until I started to practice, reach out, and network. I began making concept covers for my favorite artists, hoping they would see them. Eventually, I started working with artists Los and Nutty, who were also at the beginning of their run. They already had their brand, and I had so many ideas, so it was perfect timing.

As I worked with them and continued my freelance art, my business grew, and I started working with many different artists and labels from Detroit and across the country. Now my work also extends to my community. While I still do music art, I have taken on a creative role for my high school football team, designing for them. I am now at a point where I’m focusing on equipping my art in different forms and mediums.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
While my journey as a graphic designer and visual artist has been fulfilling, it hasn’t always been smooth. One of my biggest challenges has been building confidence in the work I put out. As an artist, there were times when I doubted my abilities and questioned whether my designs would resonate with others.

I also faced creative blocks, which made it difficult to express my ideas or find inspiration when I needed it most. These moments can be frustrating, especially when working on tight deadlines or juggling many projects at once.

Additionally, time management has been a significant struggle for me. Balancing multiple roles—freelance work, community projects, and my involvement with the football team—requires careful organization and prioritization. I’ve had to learn how to manage my time effectively to ensure that each project receives the attention it deserves while still making space for my personal life.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m still a freelance designer, but I’m also not limiting myself to just cover art. I’ve been working on merchandise and apparel designs, sports graphics, and full album rollouts. I specialize in making something out of nothing through my art.

I’m known for my own brand as well as my affiliation with Los and Nutty, serving as their creative director. I believe some of my best work stems from that campaign, but I’m also proud of the moments this journey has brought me, including being able to be in the rooms I’m in and becoming a name in my own right.

I can’t really pinpoint what sets me apart; I just try to be consistent, remain creative, and explore new ideas.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
It’s hard to tell, honestly, since new things are becoming available daily, especially with AI. Many people are starting to create their own art. I understand this approach, and to each their own, but I think art will always endure art is forever. I believe the industry will always stand strong as long as there are people who appreciate the art itself.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Goatti