Mike Ploplis, a local artist, is experiencing a resurgence in his art career, with an exhibit at Heart of Salisbury titled "Fauxtanicals." This is a significant moment for Ploplis, who has been pursuing art as a career again after a period of focus on other endeavors. His work, inspired by botanical images, is a blend of original paintings, prints, giclees, and upcycled clothing art. The exhibit is a collaboration with Wivianny "Wivi" DeHaas, the owner of Heart of Salisbury, who has a keen eye for curating art.
Ploplis' art is unique, using dish soap and spray paint to create vibrant, textured pieces. This technique, suggested by a friend, adds a batik effect and a protective layer, allowing for the creation of multi-layered, energetic works. His favorite medium is common enamel spray paints, which he combines with dish soap to achieve a batik effect. Despite not having formal art training, Ploplis has always had an artistic aptitude, and his family members are talented in various art forms, including culinary arts and watercolor painting.
The exhibit "Fauxtanicals" is a testament to Ploplis' artistic journey, which began as a form of therapy for PTSD. He found solace in art, using it to distract himself from daily stressors and triggers. This led him to make the decision to pursue art as a career, despite the challenges of building an art business and the mental health struggles he faced. The exhibit is a celebration of his resilience and a testament to the power of art as a therapeutic tool.
The opening reception for the exhibit was well-received, with Ploplis enjoying conversations with attendees and explaining his art process in detail. The exhibit has been extended, allowing more people to experience Ploplis' work and appreciate the unique techniques he uses. His favorite part of the exhibit is the way it bewilders people, inviting them to question how the art comes to fruition.
Ploplis' journey is a reminder of the transformative power of art. It is a tool for self-expression, therapy, and community building. His work is a reflection of his personal growth and a celebration of the resilience of the human spirit. As he continues to explore new avenues of creativity, Ploplis is inspiring others to find their own artistic voice and to use art as a means of self-discovery and healing.
