MEET THE ARTIST, MICAYLA GATTO

Blank Canvas is an initiative where artists transform our head and neckwear into vibrant expressions of creativity. Each design tells a story, turning everyday essentials into inspiring works of art.

Born and raised in the North Shore Mountains of Vancouver, British Columbia, I have always been surrounded by nature and drawn to expressing my experiences from the outdoors through art. I come from a family of artists and have been painting and creating since before I can remember. My preferred mediums nowadays are acrylics on wood and tattooing, although I do create digital artwork as well.  
 
It has always been a fine balance between my life as a pro mountain biker and my life as an artist; however, sometimes collaborations like this will come along, and my two worlds will collide in such a beautiful way. It makes everything I do feel worthwhile. 

I draw inspiration from my surroundings, special moments in time, or when a certain subject matter intrigues me. As a professional mountain biker, I am almost always in the desert or the mountains, so it is no surprise that mountains have become my main painting focus. The BUFF designs I created were inspired by the striking red mesas that I ride my bike on in Virgin, Utah. When I’m camping out there, I can also hear the packs of coyotes at night. They will yip and howl and chat together, and it makes me feel so free and one with the land.  

It’s hard to say what will click to make me create a piece, but it always starts more with a feeling than a vision. I will try and evoke that feeling through the piece with the colors and lines I use. On a more technical note, I will usually start with a pencil or rough paint sketch of my subject on the canvas, followed by blocks of colors and finishing with the lightest colors last, as well as the linework.

My favorite outdoor activities include mountain biking, surfing, snowboarding, sailing, and hiking. 

To me, “Live More Now” speaks to the notion that in today’s society we always tend to be looking to the future or past for happiness rather than being in the moment, enjoying the present, and being truly in our flow state. We are all so lost on our phones or in planning the next adventure or project that we forget to sit with ourselves in the present and truly bask in the amazing reality that is our lives. “Live More Now” reminds us that all we have is now, and that is where true happiness and fulfillment lie.

I am left-handed.

I love to sing, play guitar, and write poetry/songs.

I dream of sailing to Alaska on a boat my dad and I are rebuilding.