We recently had the chance to connect with Michael Cooper and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Michael, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What battle are you avoiding?
I’m fighting retiring. I’ve been doing this for 35 years, and would gladly do it for another 35 , but I’m avoiding the inevitable: one day, I’m not going to be able to do this any more – physically,. I’m in my mid-70’s right now, and feel like I could go on forever, but I know better.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hopefully you remember me from the last time I was interviewed. If not, my name is Michael Cooper, and my wife Mickie and I started Murals & More LLC 35 years ago, in Nashville, TN. We’re still here (Franklin), specializing in designing and hand-painting custom interior and exterior murals, graphics and decorative finishes. Our specialty re: murals is Trompe L’oeil, meaning “to fool the eye”. We have painted coast to coast, in all kinds of weather, and all kinds of heights. Residential, commercial, ecumenical, medical, etc. And heights don’t bother us!
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My wife gave me the vision of who I could be. She was the one that suggested that I paint murals for a living. I thought she was nuts, but she insisted, since she felt they I was pretty good at it. Again, she was right!
Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
It’s few and far between, but there are actually times that my employees listen to me. I’ve got a crew of 5 artists, most of whom have never painted murals. They’re good artists, but have never painted in this scale. Of course, as in any business, there are tricks to this trade. It’s my job to teach them how to paint large. But of course, they are young , have their own style, and know everything, while I’m old and even though I’ve been doing this professionally for over 3 decades, know nothing. It’s like having kids again!
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
You get what you see. Always have, always will.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What will you regret not doing?
I regret not learning how to play the guitar properly! I’m a “campfire” player, usually a 12-string acoustic, but I would love to learn how to play some lead blues. I’ve always regretted not taking the time to do it properly. It’s a genre that has always moved me when I listen to it, and I wish that I had the talent to process those emotions through an instrument.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.muralsandmore.com
- Instagram: Muralsandmore
- Linkedin: Muralsandmore
- Twitter: @murals
- Facebook: Miralsandmorellc
Image Credits
Image credits: @murals&morellc
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