Michael Griffin I Griffin Gallery NW

About Griffin Gallery NW

A fine art gallery of one, in the midst of evolution.

Tell us your story, Michael.

Michael: I was born in Chicago and raised in Southern California. I am a husband, father of two, and a photographer and digital artist. I also work for the North Kitsap School District part time.

A main driving force in my desire to create is travel. It has been a huge influence in my creative life. The people, the places, and the myriad of differences between them, were intimately involved in my love affair with photography.

I go where the wind and fate take me, especially throughout the Pacific Northwest. I always have an eye on unsuspecting moments that can be captured through my lens and brought to vivid life via digital means.

Another huge influence are color and texture. Both can convey a time, a place and a feeling. I have an overwhelming need to keep them as very close and personal friends of mine.

Along with the actual capture, I’m in my happy place when manipulating images using different textures, varying tones, filters and degrees of saturation and vibrance.

2023 was the first time that the Matchstick Lab Micro Business Accelerator was ever offered. How did you come to find out about it, and why did you decide to apply?

Michael: Initially, Vibe was responsible for me finding out about the program.

I was familiar with most of what Vibe Coworks offered and the great options for working remotely, so when this opportunity came about, I knew it would be special.

Meeting fellow entrepreneurs, and more importantly, mentors who have been so generous with their expertise and time have made this experience golden.

Tell us more about your work. What are you working on during your time with the Accelerator?

Michael: I am the owner and Creative Director of Griffin Gallery NW here in Poulsbo. My building is going through a 16 month (or more!) renovation. Since I have no brick and mortar space during this time, my focus is now on just my artwork and building an increased web presence.

I hope to achieve a solid network of peers and mentors that can provide advice, and possibly a partnership of sorts in the future.

I am also intent on filling in some holes in my knowledge of basic business practices, which I lacked prior to opening my business.

Can you describe what your experience with Matchstick Lab has been like so far?

Michael: It has been a blast! There is an atmosphere of such great creative energy and positivity.

The whole Matchstick Lab crew and mentors have been a bright light shining on the future of all of us participating. The Accelerator is really a “can do” state of mind, with great tools to build your dream.

What’s one goal that you’re working on, and how can people support you?

Michael: I’m working on establishing new business contacts, while enhancing current network of mentors and peer groups.

I’d love for people to follow me on Instagram, and my website.