biography
Michelle earned her BFA in Graphic Design from Missouri State University and continues her arts education in Fine Art Painting at STLCC Wildwood. She began her career working full time as a graphic artist in St. Louis Missouri, gaining experience in various areas including advertising, illustration and television. She is now in her studio painting full time and keeps busy with commissions and Plein Air events/workshops. She lives and works in Wildwood Missouri with her husband Bruce, two rescue dogs, Lil' Tot and Weeble, and volunteers at Stray Rescue of St. Louis.
artist statement
I work with oil, acrylic and paper on canvas, using palette knives and bold thick brush strokes, this allows me to capture the passion I feel for my subjects. I begin a piece with a wash of bright color, then sketch a loose but detailed grisaille. I want you to be drawn in by the image, the blurred lines, then continue to be intrigued by the bold texture and vibrant color in the detail when examined closely. I feel so lucky to be able to paint what inspires me and touch others in the process.
