Michael Cina has called many places in the Midwest home, but currently, he resides in North St. Paul, Minnesota. Cina pursued a double major; B.F.A. in Studio Art with a focus on fine art, and Visual Communication at the University of North Texas. This educational blend allowed him to develop a unique and versatile approach to his creative work.
Today, Cina is the driving force behind his own creative studio, Cina Associates, where he specializes in elevating creative form and providing expert artistic direction. With a passion for visual language and expression, Cina has cultivated a reputation for crafting distinctive and impactful brand identities for renowned international clients. His design work was nominated for a Grammy and has won an Emmy.
Beyond his extensive list of professional design accolades, Cina is a painter of notable accomplishment, his work gracing exhibitions on a global scale. His portfolio boasts a remarkable body of work, and his dedication to creating striking, memorable images has earned him a well-deserved place in the upper echelons of the creative industry.
My art is a decisive exploration of ideas and thoughts, often drawn from my observations of the world. I thrive on embracing the abstract and uncomfortable territories. My work is deeply process-driven, characterized by a diverse range of techniques, concepts, and working methods that culminate in distinctive visual forms. I draw inspiration from internal dialogues, the passage of time, the beauty of nature, intricate textures, and the intricate dynamics of human relationships. Ultimately, my goal is to create works that reflect both myself, and hopefully the viewer.
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© 1986 - 2026 Michael Cina
I write about process over at Substack. I try and provide helpful insights I have gathered through the years.
I have been drawing typefaces since 1998 and it’s as much as a habit as a hobby. I ran CinaHaus, Test Pilot Collective, and founded YouWorkForThem in the past and currently building Public Type.