Michel Steers: The visionary behind Graffitifun Amsterdam

Michel Steers – The visionary behind Graffitifun Amsterdam

In the heart of Amsterdam, where the historic canals meet the raw, industrial energy of the urban landscape, a revolution in street art education was born. To understand the global phenomenon that is Graffitifun today, one must look toward the man who saw potential where others saw only spray paint on brick. Michel Steers, the founder and visionary behind Graffitifun, has spent over two decades transforming a misunderstood subculture into a powerful tool for connection, creativity, and professional development.

From Amsterdam's streets to a global stage

Michel Steers is more than just a business owner; he is a custodian of Amsterdam’s rich graffiti heritage. Growing up in a city that serves as a living gallery, Michel was immersed in the vibrant street art scene from a young age. While many saw graffiti as a fleeting rebellious act, Michel recognized it as a profound form of communication—a visual language that transcended social and economic barriers.

Today, Graffitifun stands as a testament to that vision. What began as a local initiative in the Netherlands has expanded into an international powerhouse, operating in 43 countries. Yet, despite this massive scale, Michel’s core mission remains unchanged: to bring the authentic experience of street art to the masses while maintaining the highest standards of professional artistry. Through Graffitifun Netherlands, Michel continues to bridge the gap between the underground art world and the mainstream public.

The early years: passion meets purpose

The early 2000s were a pivotal time for street art in Amsterdam. The city was a melting pot of styles, from the classic "wildstyle" lettering found in the Spuistraat to the emerging mural culture in the Vondelpark area. Michel spent these formative years deeply embedded in the culture, honing his craft and studying the techniques of the masters who came before him.

It was during this period that Michel noticed a significant gap in the market. There was a growing curiosity about graffiti among the general public—parents wanted their children to learn the art form, and companies were looking for creative ways to engage their employees. However, there were no professional avenues to learn these skills in a safe, structured, and inspiring environment. Michel realized that his passion for spray paint could be channeled into a purpose: educating others and legitimizing the art form he loved.

Building Graffitifun from the ground up

In 2005, Michel took a leap of faith and founded Graffitifun. In its infancy, the company was a modest operation. Michel was the sole artist, the administrator, and the visionary. He began hosting small-scale graffiti workshops in Amsterdam, often utilizing the city’s legal "Hall of Fame" walls.

Building a brand from scratch in an industry that lacked a professional blueprint was no easy feat. Michel had to balance the raw authenticity of graffiti with the logistical requirements of a professional service. He focused on three pillars: safety, quality of materials, and educational value. As word spread about the high-energy, inclusive nature of his sessions, the demand skyrocketed. Michel wasn't just teaching people how to paint; he was giving them a sense of agency and a new way to express their identity.

A philosophy rooted in creativity and inclusion

At the heart of Michel Steers’ leadership is a steadfast philosophy: graffiti is for everyone. He has spent years dismantling the stereotype that street art is an exclusive club for the young or the rebellious. Under his guidance, Graffitifun has developed specialized programs that cater to every demographic.

Michel believes that creativity is a universal human trait that often gets suppressed by the rigors of modern life. His workshops are designed to unlock that creativity. Whether it is a five-year-old picking up a spray can for the first time or a CEO learning to collaborate with their department, Michel ensures that every participant feels empowered. This commitment to inclusivity is what sets Graffitifun apart. The brand doesn't just sell an activity; it sells an experience of belonging and discovery.

Growing a team of 42+ professional artists

Michel knew that to realize his global vision, he couldn’t do it alone. He began scouting for artists who shared his dual passion for high-level technical skill and pedagogical excellence. Transitioning from a solo artist to a manager of talent required a shift in mindset, but Michel’s deep roots in the community made him a natural leader.

Today, the core Graffitifun team consists of over 42 professional artists in the Netherlands alone. These aren't just hobbyists; they are seasoned street artists, illustrators, and designers who bring a wealth of real-world experience to every workshop. Beyond this core group, Michel has built an expansive network of over 250 artists worldwide.

By vetting every artist for both their creative portfolio and their ability to teach, Michel has ensured that the "Graffitifun standard" is maintained across every event. This professionalization of the workforce has allowed the company to handle large-scale corporate team building workshops with the same finesse as an intimate birthday party.

The international breakthrough

The expansion of Graffitifun from a local Amsterdam workshop to a brand operating in 43 countries is a milestone that few in the art world ever achieve. This growth was organic, driven by an increasing global appetite for authentic urban experiences. Michel’s strategic approach involved partnering with the best local talent in cities across Europe, the Americas, and beyond, ensuring that the local flavor of street art was preserved while following the Graffitifun methodology.

A key factor in this international success was the choice of locations. Michel has always been inspired by the NDSM Wharf in Amsterdam-Noord—a rugged, industrial shipyard turned cultural hotspot. He looked for similar "creative hubs" across the globe, places where the environment itself inspires the art. This global reach has turned Graffitifun into a cultural bridge, connecting artists from different backgrounds under a single, unified brand.

Michel's impact on the graffiti workshop industry

Before Michel Steers and Graffitifun, the concept of a "graffiti workshop" was often disorganized or treated as a gimmick. Michel pioneered the professionalization of the industry. He introduced structured lesson plans, high-quality protective gear, and eco-friendly paint options, setting a benchmark that others in the industry now strive to follow.

His impact is perhaps most visible in the corporate sector. Michel was one of the first to recognize that the collaborative nature of creating a large-scale mural perfectly mirrors the dynamics of a high-performing business team. By translating graffiti techniques into metaphors for communication, leadership, and problem-solving, he created a new niche in the professional development market.

What drives Graffitifun today

After nearly two decades at the helm, Michel Steers remains as passionate today as he was in 2005. He is frequently found at the NDSM Wharf or the various legal painting spots in Amsterdam, staying connected to the roots of the movement. His focus has now shifted toward sustainability and social impact, finding ways to use street art to revitalize urban spaces and support community projects.

The drive behind Graffitifun today is the same one that sparked the idea years ago: the belief that when you give someone a spray can, you aren't just giving them a tool; you are giving them a voice. Michel’s journey from an Amsterdam street artist to the visionary leader of an international creative empire is a story of persistence, passion, and the power of a clear vision.

As Graffitifun continues to grow, Michel remains committed to the streets of Amsterdam that shaped him. He continues to prove that with the right approach, street art can be a force for good, a medium for education, and a bridge that connects people across the world. Under his leadership, the future of Graffitifun is as bright and colorful as the murals his team creates every day.