Many artists have had to deal with the idea of instability if choosing to only pursue art. But Mike Mertes is a perfect example and an inspiration to all aspiring artists.

Mertes has devoted his life to art and writing, has a loving family with four children, and provides without a problem. That should put hope back into the heads of artists that believe they have to give up financial stability for their love of art.

On Friday, Mertes had his first art show open up for the public to view at UAFs student gallery. The gallery quickly filled as awestricken guests eyed his works.

"Welcome to my world; some of the stuff in my head," he said while greeting one viewer.

The printings shown had different shapes and colors that were "competing for visual attention," as written by Mertes.

The artistic nude drawings he had done projected a combination of bold stokes and smooth blending to create beautiful works of art. Some of these had been only two-minute drawings, but looked just as well composed as the drawings that took longer.

"On another level, shaping these things provides me with an internal balance by weighting the stress of the world outside of me against the release of creation," Mertes said.

Mertes's inspirations mostly come from the curve of the female form. He also works with sculpture, print making, words, carpet, and drawing. In all of these his curves are just as beautiful and flowing.

Mertes has been working with art for many years. Outside of his art, Mertes has worked in journalism and is currently employed at the Alaska Club.

His wife and four children are in good support of him and help organize his work.

Mertes has attended school at the South West Texas State University, and now is completing his last year towards a degree in art.