Story & Lesson Highlights with Mike Tauber of South Orange County

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Mike Tauber. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Mike, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What battle are you avoiding?
I battle with anxiety before speaking events. These include my public art walking tours, and introducing speakers at artist lectures. I have actual nightmares as the date approaches. My solution has been to start with something funny, or ask the audience an engaging question … and somehow it always works out.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
In my profession, I wear “multiple hats”, all in the visual arts industry. Primarily I create murals in ceramic tile, and some are in paint. These are at public parks, commercial places, and private residences throughout so-cal and internationally. Of these, some favorite projects are giant community mosaics, whereby I design a mural, and involve citizens in decorating individual tiles. One can see each personal tile, but when standing back, it composes a larger overall image. I also work for two non-profits, coordinating exhibits, artist lectures, and events.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
In third grade art class, I had a day where I was especially focused. I drew a bunch of purple grapes with crayons. They looked very realistic with highlights and shadows. I felt fully accomplished, but to add to my pride, Miss Bertalino pinned it to the bulletin board and announced to the class, “This is how it’s done!”

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
While crossing legally in a marked crosswalk, a motorist ignored his red light and smashed into me at 40 miles per hour. While the surgeon pulled windshield glass from my butt, I overheard discussions of a nearby patient who would not survive his trauma. At that moment I realized the fragility of life, and in coming weeks and months – I vowed to expand my life, recognize my personal gifts, and take on greater challenges.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
In the realm of urban planning, I believe in mobility choices and safe access to human spaces for all people. I think it’s wrong when city planners and transportation agencies force everyone into one mode, usually just motor vehicles. It’s obvious many people are unable, unqualified, or unwilling to drive – but have little or no practical choice. As a result, freeways are inefficient, risky, dangerous, and hostile places. I hope to be a future advocate supporting choices in mobility. Awareness is growing!

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
I feel peaceful, but also energized upon the completion of a large mural project. They can take 6-18 months from start to finish, and it’s always very demanding and challenging. I say “its like having a baby” … so that’s what I imagine it’s like.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://lagunacanyonartstudios.com/mike-tauber/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miketauberart/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-tauber-8b43986/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mike.tauber.35?fref=ts
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MrMikeTauber/videos

Image Credits
Mike Tauber