“The creative adult is the child who survived.” — Ursula Le Guin
Mushka, the mastermind behind Madison's Mushka Studios, is a vibrant virtuoso in the realms of art and performance. A graduate of The Museum School at Tufts, he orchestrates a symphony of skills, specializing in figurative painting, fanciful illustration, captivating costumes, and gorgeous graphic design. This creative conjurer has left his indelible mark on unique industries, enchanting clients like Warner Brothers, DC Comics, and Nickelodeon with his distinctive and dynamic styles, a dance between Classical and Contemporary techniques, nurtured by an ever-supportive circle of friends and family.
Beyond his artistic exploits, Mushka passionately plucks the ethereal strings of the Theremin, weaving magical melodies that echo through the ethers. His heartfelt performances not only captivate audiences but also serve as a benevolent beacon, raising funds for children battling cancer.
Michael "Mushka" Yurkew
Highlights of Career Accomplishments
• Developing signage, catalogs, consumer apparel and packaging for upcoming television programs and blockbuster films for Star Wars, Harry Potter, Star Trek, Marvel and DC Comics, Nickelodeon, Disney and Warner Brothers.
• Initiating and producing a wide range of digital artwork used in trade shows, Email campaigns, CMS websites, brochures, catalogs and large-scale banners, light boxes and promotional merchandise.
• Establishing and enhancing brands for local clients and groups such as Mitsubishi Electric, Primedia Publications and Girl Scouts.
• Producing catalogs, CD covers and packaging spanning diverse companies such as Mattel, Sony Music and Spectrum Brand’s pet wellness products.
• Directing photo sessions for consumer products, selecting models and processing images for most effective visual communication.
1990-1992
The Museum School of Fine Art at Tufts, MAT Art Education
1981-1986
UW Wisconsin - Madison, BS Fine Art
Exhibitions -
Sculpture, painting and performance
Huntington, NY
Old San Juan, PR
Madison, WI
Portsmith, NH
Minneapolis, MN
Chicago, IL
Volunteer work, certifications and licensing
Therapeutic Arts Practitioner
Certified Wisconsin Art Teacher, Grades 5-12
Co-Vice President, Board of Volunteers, MMoCA
Docent, MMoCA
Zaibas Lithuanian Dance Troupe
Theremin Workshops at Madison Children's Museum
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