It all began at age 17, recalls Brother Ticas. "I went on vacation with my family to Cancun, Mexico and I saw a spray painting artist. I was so inspired that I wanted to learn to be like him. I ended up buying two paintings from him that day. I just thought it was something so unique and at the time I wanted to find something that would help me stand out." On that day, Ticas Creations was born. 

As with all things, it takes time and dedication to master a craft. Ticas is the first to admit he put in the requisite time and effort to reach his current level of success. In fact, he admits that when he first began his creations, he couldn't even draw a stick figure. "I remember the beginning was very difficult, and I felt discouraged, but my friends and family supported me. I ended up painting something every day and practicing until I got the techniques down." After school, Ticas put in hours, sometimes working until midnight, dedicated to bettering himself. From watching YouTube tutorials to practicing different strokes over and over, his hard work paid off. But that doesn't mean he's done learning. In fact, Ticas practices at least three hours every day. "I just believe in the philosophy that there is a major difference between a professional and an amateur," Ticas says. 



Michael uses social media to promote Ticas Creations, including Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Patreon, a start-up site for artists similar to GoFundMe. He also uses his business skills to sell paintings through word of mouth, door-to-door sales, events and flyers on campus. 

Ticas is enjoying his time as a Deltasig and lives with his best friend, a fellow brother, who supports his passion and his at-home studio. At Houston, he studies marketing and entrepreneurship and is on track to graduate in 2020. Upon graduation, he plans to continue his business and use his degree to help him do so successfully. When asked about his time in the Fraternity, Ticas replied, "It's been great. I know everyone in my chapter knows I'm a 'painter,' and they always support me in my endeavors. I consider them my family, and I would do anything for them." 



Of the beautiful paintings that are sold at Ticas Creations, Michael enjoys creating artwork that tells a story, and has meaning. "I also like taking masterpieces like 'Starry Night' and putting my own spin on them," he says. 

To learn more about Ticas Creations, visit: 
Instagram: instagram.com/ticas_creations 
Patreon: patreon.com/ticas_creations