Giving Back
For Michael, art is more than creation - it is devotion. Each painting not only honors the joy dogs bring to our lives, but also extends outward as a gesture of giving. Throughout his career, Michael has supported animal rescues, charities, and community causes that share his belief in the healing presence of dogs.
He sees every painting as a ripple of love - one that begins on the canvas, touches the homes of collectors, and then reaches further to make a difference. Whether through donating his work, raising awareness, or helping fund programs that bring hope, Michael views giving back as inseparable from creating art. In honoring dogs on canvas, he also honors the chance to uplift lives, offering comfort, joy, and compassion where it is needed most.
email: michael@michaelvistia.com
Elyse Chaplin, Ph.D. Vice President of Licensing | Michael Vistia Art
Elyse Chaplin serves as the Vice President of Licensing for acclaimed artist Michael Vistia, where she leads the strategic expansion of his vibrant and heartwarming artwork into diverse markets. With a strong passion for both art and connection, Elyse is dedicated to amplifying Vistia’s joyful, smile-inducing art—often celebrated for its playful depictions of canine friends and animals—ensuring it reaches and resonates with an ever-growing global audience.
A native of Toronto, Canada, Elyse brings over 25 years of experience in leadership and community-building, having served as a dean and director in student affairs at various universities in both the USA and Canada. With a Ph.D. in Higher Education from University of Toronto, she has long been driven by a commitment to learning, mentorship, collaboration, and fostering meaningful relationships. Elyse's work in philanthropy, particularly with organizations like Dogs Inc. (formerly known as Southeastern Guide Dogs), reflects her deep dedication to bringing joy and positive change to the lives of others—mirroring the uplifting and compassionate messages conveyed through Vistia’s art.
Elyse's professional background is further enriched by her experience in corporate jewelry sales, and in convention planning, where she honed her expertise in relationship-building, marketing, and sales. This diverse skill set uniquely positions her to lead the licensing division at Michael Vistia Art, seamlessly merging her passion for art with a strategic business mindset.
Outside of her professional life, Elyse is a devoted animal lover and advocate for pet therapy. As a dog mom of a golden retriever named Oscar, she is deeply involved in bringing the healing power of animals to those in need, often visiting nursing homes to share the joy of her therapy dog. Her love of dogs and animals is reflected not only in her personal life but also in the art she champions, celebrating the bond between humans and animals. In her spare time, Elyse enjoys traveling the world, capturing moments through photography, and writing whimsical poetry.
To contact for licensing inquiries:
Elyse Chaplin
Vice President of Licensing
email: elyse.licensing.vistia@gmail.com
818-447-2866
Print 