Mike Chamberlin’s relationship with art began early, taking root in the halls of Madison East High School, where he first realized that art wasn’t just an interest—it was a calling. That spark led him into the sign trade in the summer of 1979, where he learned the discipline and beauty of traditional sign making: hand-lettering, airbrushing, pinstriping, and the timeless art of gold leaf.
In 1992, Mike founded Vital Signs in Verona, Wisconsin, building a career that spanned nearly three decades. Along the way, he became part of a global community of artists and tradespeople, sharing techniques, stories, and a deep respect for work made slowly and with intention. Those years shaped not only his skills, but his belief that craft and art are inseparable.
Since retiring in 2021, Mike has turned his full attention to the studio, pushing pinstriping beyond its roots and into the realm of fine art. Working with epoxy resin, layered color, and gold, silver, copper, and variegated leaf, he creates richly textured pieces that invite close inspection. Often incorporating wood and recycled materials, his work honors tradition while embracing experimentation—each piece a one-of-a-kind exploration of line, depth, and time.