By Rachel Shuster

Some people are born with a natural gift for the maths and sciences; some are born with an eye for the arts. Mihhail Berezovski is lucky enough to be born with both. Originally from Estonia, Berezovski has come to the United States to pursue his artistic and scientific dreams.

Berezovski originally came to the States to join the faculty at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and further his research studies. As a visiting assistant professor of mathematical sciences, Berezovski ~ or “Professor B,” as his calculus students like to call him ~ continues the research on numerical simulation of wave propagation he began in Estonia at WPI.

So … numerical simulation of wave propagation … is what, exactly? Berezovski said his research can be compared to an example of investigation, such as the behavior of body armor when a bullet hits it. Some modern armors are created from metal-ceramic composites, so to figure out how to minimize the impact of a bullet, researchers have to look at how many layers should be used in creating the armor and how wide the layers should be. Put it all together, and you’ve got body armor that can keep its users safe.

Berezovski’s passion doesn’t stop at mathematical sciences, however. He’s also a skilled photographer, graphic designer, oil painter and tattoo designer. When focusing on his artistic passions, Berezovski goes by the pseudonym Mike Reality.

While his research and his artistic endeavors seem to be on opposite ends of the spectrum, Berezovski said there is definitely a connection.

“When I teach or do research, I think of pictures in my head. I love teaching. It’s like a performance and gives me energy. A creative person should be creative in everything. Even old-school scientists ~ it’s natural. The creative nature of the mind is a special gift,” he said.

With 20 years as an artist under his belt, Berezovski, as Mike Reality, has done everything from promotional videos for TV to collaborating with friends on drawing tattoo designs.

Berezovski has a special fondness for photography, which has been his primary focus for 10 years. “I learned [photography skills] from being a model myself and from various photographers and good friends,” he said. Some of his favorite photographers include Anton Corbijn, Terry Richardson and David LaChapelle.

Berezovski isn’t just any photographer. No weddings or baby showers for him. His focus is all about people, with a few nature and scenic photos mixed in. “I like to see the world a little more beautifully than it is. I like more eye-catching things, like people I have met,” he said.

Berezovski’s travels also have influenced his skills and inspired creation. “I have traveled to France, England, China, Russia, Spain, Finland, Italy and even more extreme places. Each place and person inspires me differently. Italians feel good when they look good, and the Irish are very fun,” he said.

The biggest challenge for Berezovski as a professor and artist is finding the time to do it all. “Balance is extremely important. I can’t do art and make the science suffer and vice versa. However, I do need to give my brain a rest,” he said.

Whether it’s his passion for science and research or love of photography and creative arts, Berezovski said he hopes his work will inspire others. “My goal is to leave more of myself in this world. It’s my hope that someone can look [at my work] and understand me.”

For more information, visit mikereality.com.

Photos (by Mike Reality):
Mike Reality self-portrait.
Model with hair and makeup done by Natali Berezovski.