Mike was raised by his uncle, and well-known Haida singer, Percy Brown. He was inspired to begin creating art at an early age, and his family encouraged him to learn about all facets of his culture. Mike is mainly inspired by his grandfather, Captain Andy Brown, who was a well known argillite carver and personality. Today, Mike splits his time between Queen Charlotte City and Gwaii Haanas, the South Moresby Wilderness Park. He creates argillite carvings, jewellery, drums and paddles.