Michael became an artist from interests in carving, knife making, glass etching, and acrylic painting. His work envisions animal spirits of the earth harmonizing with nature, and celebrates the very basis of what mother earth shares. In return he creates beautiful carvings and pieces that reflect these visions. He has been carving with bone and ivory for eight years, airbrushing for sixteen years, and glass etching for twenty years. His knife blades are made from old planer blades (high carbon steel); also old chipper blades (chrome vanadium, which is one of the hardest steels around) found in old sawmills. Michael states, "The knife blades made from these materials hold a good edge for a long time."

He is very proud of his heritage and would like to honor Richard Rowe, Knife-maker and Master Carver, from Oklahoma, for his influence, inspiration and training.

"If I had an interest I would wait for someone who has the knowledge to show me and share their talent with me." His older sister, Yvonne Thomas, also a gifted artist/painter, has always supported Michael's love of art, "I became fascinated with her work and wanted to learn."

This past winter he was invited to be one of the featured artist venders at the 2002 Winter Olympic games in Salt Lake City, Utah. "I sold work to people from all corners of the world." Michael's long-term goal is to own his own art studio-workshop where he can feature his cultural artwork with other local artists. "I want to show people how art and culture influences our daily life."