Michael Venus, a singularly talented individual, has woven a rich tapestry of creativity, seamlessly blending the realms of artistic expression, dramatic performance, and behind-the-scenes production expertise. As a multifaceted Canadian artist, actor, and producer, he has established himself as a prominent figure within the arts community, leaving an indelible mark that continues to resonate with audiences and inspire fellow creatives alike.
At the tender age of 18, Venus embarked on a transformative journey, relocating to Windsor, Ontario, a city that would serve as the perfect backdrop for his artistic pursuits. It was here that he became deeply immersed in the local arts scene, leveraging his innate creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to collaborate with like-minded individuals and co-found the visionary artist collective, "House of Venus".
This innovative collective, comprising a diverse group of talented individuals, would go on to leave an indelible mark on the community, spearheading a wide range of projects and events that showcased the group's boundless creativity and passion. Among their most notable endeavors was the organization of various art exhibitions, which served as a platform for local artists to showcase their work and connect with like-minded individuals.
In addition to their artistic endeavors, the collective also threw their weight behind the creation of unique and unforgettable club nights, which became the stuff of local legend. These events, characterized by their infectious energy and eclectic blend of music, dance, and performance art, drew in crowds from far and wide, cementing the collective's reputation as a driving force behind Windsor's thriving arts scene.
But perhaps the most iconic and enduring legacy of "House of Venus" is the annual wearable art and wig festival, affectionately known as "Wiggle". This joyous celebration of creativity and self-expression has become an integral part of the community's fabric, attracting visitors from across the globe who come to marvel at the dazzling array of wigs, costumes, and art installations on display. And although the years have passed, "Wiggle" continues to thrive, a testament to the power of artistic collaboration and the enduring spirit of the "House of Venus" collective.
In the year 1995, a pivotal moment in the life of Venus, marked the beginning of a significant transition as he relocated to the vibrant city of Vancouver, situated in the province of British Columbia, Canada. This move would prove to be a defining period in his artistic journey, as he dedicated the subsequent 18 years to meticulously refining his craft as a multifaceted artist and event producer.
Venus embarked upon a creative journey during the mid-1990s, venturing into the realm of drag as his alter ego, Miss Cotton, a persona that would soon earn recognition within the world of drag culture.
As House Mother and a prominent figure among the "Venus Girls", Miss Cotton has amassed an impressive portfolio of stage and television credits, solidifying her reputation as a talented performer.
Notable achievements in her illustrious career include taking the stage at the renowned NYC Outdoor Drag Festival, "Wigstock", in 1999, where she shared the spotlight with other notable drag performers.
Additionally, Miss Cotton made a memorable appearance in The New Pornographer's music video for "Sing Me Spanish Techno", further expanding her reach within the entertainment industry.
In a more recent and prestigious endeavor, Miss Cotton had the honor of hosting and curating the pre-show for the Official 2010 International Olympic Committee afterparty, where she had the privilege of introducing the iconic Australian rock band, INXS, to a global audience.
In the year 2001, Venus embarked on a new creative venture, delving into the realm of filmmaking and establishing a fruitful partnership with the talented Mark Kenneth Woods. This collaboration would ultimately yield a groundbreaking and pioneering achievement, as they co-produced the world's first-ever LGBT-themed sketch comedy series, the esteemed House of Venus Show.
Venus, a talented individual, made a significant contribution to the film industry by co-producing and co-starring in the feature film "Deb and Sisi". This notable project premiered at the esteemed Out On Screen Vancouver Queer Film Festival in August 2008, garnering widespread attention and acclaim.
Furthermore, Venus's impressive work extended to the realm of art, as he successfully conceptualized and presented his "Icons and Demigods Show" at the inaugural Nuit Rose festival, which was held during World Pride. This remarkable display of artistic expression won the prestigious Throbbing Rose Art Collective award, solidifying Venus's status as a pioneering force in the world of art and entertainment.
Venus is presently engaged in the creation of a documentary film titled Snow Queen, which delves into the rich history and profound influence of drag culture in Canada.
