Complete Guide to Mike Bennett
Mike bragging about his family on the Kelly Clarkson Show
It has come to my attention that people are hiring me without knowing that I’m married to local Portland, OR artist Mike Bennett. Hard to believe at this point, since his fame eclipses mine. I assume every client finds me via his community engagement and public works of art, but seems it’s not the case! So, in case you found me some other way, I’m married to Mike Bennett.
Here is his website, and his instagram. Maybe you would recognize his turtles, sloths, and snails asking you to slow down. Or maybe you found him on tiktok when he made a front yard zoo during the pandemic.
It has also come to my attention that not everyone knows how to find Mike’s immersive experiences or buy his artwork. I’m going to do my best to write a comprehensive list of all the ways you can enjoy Mike’s art.
Wonderwood Springs
Gilda’s favorite place, and one of her first words - ' Wonderwood!’ Be ready to be amazed with how imersive and imaginative this place is! Wonderwood Springs is an all-day cafe and restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee drinks, and soft serve ice cream.
Wonderwood Mini Golf
9 hole mini golf course from Mike’s imagination. So many interactive elements and fun twists. Also in the fantasy world shared by Wonderwood Springs.
Mike Bennett Studios
A family-friendly art studio and gift shop where kids of all ages come to create and find joy. This is Mike’s actual studio, and he opens to the public on weekends, typically 11-4pm, for arts and crafts, community events, and shopping.
The Portland Aquarium
An educational, family-friendly cartoon aquarium located in downtown Portland, Oregon. Gosh is this place fun! You are given a compendium with all the animals inside the aquarium, and get to walk through the different biomes and find all the animals for yourself. Along the way you search for Gilly the Goldfish, inspired by our daughter Gilda. You can also talk to wales in their own language.
Oregon Zoo
Mike revamped the Stellar Cove exhibit at the Oregon Zoo with some sweet swimming otters in a cartoon kelp forest.
Zooquarium Podcast
Mike makes a podcast for curious kids of all ages who love animals. The Zooquarium is where science and art collide! On each episode, our hosts, Mike and Chanel, answer your wildest animal questions.
Mike’s Ted Talk
Mike gave a Ted Talk in 2025, with the encouragement to pick up what scares you. It’s a really nice overview of his art career.
Pokemon
Mike is painting all 151 original Pokemon. He is sharing photos and videos of them on his instagram, and they available to view at his studio. He also has sticker versions at his studio.
Summer Animal Scavenger Hunt in Portland and Bend
In partnership with PDX Parent, Mike hid animal art all over various neighborhoods in Portland and Bend for kids to search for and enjoy.
Tack Game
Mike and his colleague Lorenzo Moon designed and built a vintage style arcade game about a thumb tack. Play for free at Wonderwood Springs!
Gift Shops
You can buy Mike’s art at Wonderwood Springs, the Portland Aquarium, Mike Bennett Studios and online!