Michael Gavrieli’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a top-selling artist is nothing short of inspirational. A self-taught European artist, Michael has mastered the ancient “encaustic technique” to create unique and luxurious 24-karat gold artworks. His 24-Karat Gold Billionaire Edition is a masterpiece in the world of art, combining rare techniques with precious materials to produce unparalleled luxury pieces. As he now sets his sights on the Saudi Arabian market, Michael’s visionary approach and relentless passion continue to push the boundaries of what art can achieve.
Thank you for the incredible opportunity to share my passion and story with the esteemed audience of Luxury Network Magazine. I believe they will truly appreciate the unparalleled experience that my artworks offer—each piece is a journey into a world of rich cultural expression and powerful energy of 24 karat gold. Meeting Abdulah and his wonderful wife over our four-hour dinner was a truly special experience. We connected on a deep level, and our time together was filled with vibrant energy and meaningful conversations about our life stories. It was a profound exchange that has set the stage for a partnership to bring something truly unprecedented to Saudi Arabia—24 karat gold art that the world has never seen, limited by production and is imposible to copy.
1. Your journey to becoming a successful artist is truly remarkable. How did your early life experiences shape your artistic vision?
My early life experiences were far from the world of art, but they played a crucial role in shaping my artistic vision. Growing up in a humble environment, I didn’t have access to galleries or cultural influences. However, that all changed when I moved to Prague and met an art collector who introduced me to his collection of 300 masterpieces. That moment was transformative, sparking a deep passion within me to create something truly unique. It inspired me to dream of creating art that the world has never seen—art that combines my personal journey with the luxury of 24-karat gold, resulting in pieces that are both timeless and extraordinary.
2. What inspired you to adopt the ancient encaustic technique in your work, and how do you combine it with modern luxury elements like 24-karat gold?
The inspiration to embrace the ancient encaustic technique began with a suggestion from my wife, who discovered it online as a form of therapy. Intrigued by her enthusiasm, I decided to try it and was immediately enchanted by the process. The encaustic method, with its roots tracing back to the Pharaohs of Egypt, offered a profound connection to ancient craftsmanship that deeply resonated with me.
As I delved into this technique, I found a new passion for incorporating precious materials, especially 24-karat gold. The luxurious, radiant quality of gold seamlessly complements the rich textures of encaustic art. By blending these elements, I create pieces that bridge historical elegance with contemporary sophistication, resulting in artworks that are not only timeless but also uniquely luxurious.
3. The 24-Karat Gold Billionaire Edition is one of your most exclusive offerings. Can you share the creative process behind these unique pieces?
The 24-Karat Gold Billionaire Edition holds a special place in my heart because it represents the culmination of my artistic vision, self-belief, and deep passion for working with 24-karat gold. When I set out to create these pieces, I wanted to craft something that was not just a work of art, but a symbol of wealth and iconic status in the form of jewels on the wall.
As I delved into this technique, I found a new passion for incorporating precious materials, especially 24-karat gold. The luxurious, radiant quality of gold seamlessly complements the rich textures of encaustic art. By blending these elements, I create pieces that bridge historical elegance with contemporary sophistication, resulting in artworks that are not only timeless but also uniquely luxurious.
4. You’ve categorized your artworks into different editions, each with its own unique focus. How do you decide which edition a new piece will belong to?
Deciding which edition a new piece belongs to is a thoughtful process rooted in the artwork’s inspiration and the story it tells. Each edition I’ve created has a distinct theme or focus, whether it’s the use of specific materials, the exploration of certain concepts, or the emotions I want to convey.
When I complete a new piece, I reflect on the elements that define it—such as the materials used, the techniques applied, and the overall aesthetic and message. If a piece exudes a certain level of opulence, it might belong to a more exclusive, luxury-focused edition. Conversely, if it embodies deeper cultural or historical significance, it may fit into an edition that celebrates those themes.
4. You’ve categorized your artworks into different editions, each with its own unique focus. How do you decide which edition a new piece will belong to?
Each edition I create represents a different facet of my artistic exploration. When I start a new piece, I consider the emotions and themes I want to convey. If the piece is more experimental or personal, it might belong to a more limited edition, where I can push boundaries without the constraints of commercial expectations. On the other hand, if a piece is designed to embody luxury and exclusivity, it will likely be part of a special edition like the Billionaire Edition. The decision is intuitive, based on the essence of the work and the message I want to deliver.
5. Your story involves significant highs and lows. What kept you motivated during the most challenging times of your journey?
During the toughest times, what kept me going was the belief that art was my true calling. The early struggles taught me resilience, and every setback only fueled my determination to succeed. I also found motivation in the support of my wife and the few individuals who believed in my work. Creating art became not just a passion but a form of therapy and self-expression. The thought of one day seeing my work appreciated by others kept me moving forward, even when the path seemed impossible.
6. You’ve achieved remarkable success without the support of galleries or art dealers. What strategies did you use to connect with high-end clientele?
Without the backing of galleries or art dealers, I focused on building direct relationships with my clients. I utilized social media to showcase my work and tell my story, which resonated with many people. I also attended events and networked with individuals who appreciated art, which helped me gain exposure. My work itself, with its unique combination of traditional and luxury elements, attracted attention from high-end clients. Word-of-mouth recommendations and personal connections have been crucial in building my clientele.
7. Why have you decided to introduce your art to the Saudi Arabian market, and what do you hope to achieve with your limited-edition pieces there?
The Saudi Arabian market is known for its appreciation of luxury and exclusivity, which aligns perfectly with my art. Introducing my work, there is an opportunity to connect with a sophisticated audience that values both tradition and modernity. With my limited-edition pieces, I hope to offer something truly unique that speaks to the region’s rich cultural heritage while also appealing to contemporary tastes. My goal is to establish a presence in Saudi Arabia that celebrates the intersection of art, luxury, and innovation.
8. What do you believe sets your art apart in the luxury market, and how do you continue to innovate while maintaining your signature style?
What sets my art apart in the luxury market is the fusion of ancient techniques with modern opulence. The use of the encaustic method, combined with luxury materials like 24-karat gold, creates a distinct and timeless appeal. To continue innovating while maintaining my signature style, I constantly explore new materials and techniques while staying true to the core elements that define my work. I believe in evolution, not revolution—each new piece is an opportunity to refine and expand on the ideas that have always inspired me.
9. Looking forward, what are your aspirations for the future, and how do you see your art evolving in the coming years?
Looking ahead, I aspire to push the boundaries of what’s possible with my art. I want to explore larger-scale installations and perhaps collaborate with architects and designers to integrate my work into luxury spaces. I also see my art evolving through the continued exploration of new materials and techniques, always with an eye on balancing tradition with innovation. Ultimately, my goal is to create pieces that not only reflect my personal journey but also resonate with a global audience, leaving a lasting impact in the world of luxury art.
10. What advice would you give to aspiring artists who face skepticism or doubt from others about their vision?
My advice to aspiring artists is to stay true to their vision, no matter the skepticism or doubt they may face. Every artist’s journey is unique, and it’s important to trust in your own process and intuition. Challenges and criticism are inevitable, but they can also be powerful motivators. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, and don’t be afraid to take risks and experiment. Most importantly, let your passion for art guide you—if you are dedicated and persistent, your work will eventually find its audience.