Jon Stojan
Christopher Walters
What begins as a chance meeting can sometimes spark something extraordinary. Thirteen years ago, filmmaker Christopher Walters walked into a boutique on Melrose Avenue and discovered not just remarkable art, but a lifelong friendship. That boutique belonged to Mike Norice — a visionary artist and fashion entrepreneur from Los Angeles whose work has touched the lives of celebrities and everyday people alike.
Drawn together by mutual respect and shared values, Walters and Norice have now brought their creative energies together in ARTFULLY UNITED, a powerful documentary about art, transformation, and the enduring strength of community. The film, which took ten years and thirty cross-country trips to complete, will be shown at the Cannes Film Market next month.
Mike Norice
More than just a profile of an artist, this is a story of hope, resilience, and faith. It’s a testament to the belief that where you come from doesn’t define where you’re going — and that true success means lifting others as you rise.
Walters and the film’s director Dave Benner have collaborated on several projects including the feature film, SRQ: State of Mind, which premiered at the Buffalo Niagara Film Festival where Walters won the Best Actor award. They also released Postcard from Hallowell, a documentary about their hometown, which was accepted into several festivals and won awards, including Best Documentary Short at the Golden Nugget International Film Festival. In 2023, Walters was appointed by Governor Janet Mills to serve as vice chairman of the Maine State Film Commission.
At 48, Walters lives with his wife, Trisha, and their one-year-old daughter. He also has two daughters, aged 16 and 20, from a previous marriage. A multifaceted creator, Walters is not only a filmmaker but also a writer, actor, and dedicated animal advocate. His career history spans a diverse range of fields, from DJing and hip-hop journalism to working in social services, construction management and property development. This eclectic background has given him the perspective to recognize and seize serendipitous opportunities.
“Making this film was the experience of a lifetime,” says Chris, “Mike Norice and his family provide an example of triumph over adversity. His artwork, activism, and resolute faith have inspired and affected communities in Los Angeles and beyond. I want everyone to see this film and be encouraged.”