Originally from Ayrshire, Michelle graduated from the Glasgow School of Art in 2006 and now works from her studio in The Briggait, Glasgow. She is currently represented by Art Pistol Gallery, Glasgow, and The Velvet Easel, Portobello.
Michelle uses painting as a language tool to process her experience of the world around her. As a neurodivergent individual, she experiences and interprets life differently, and her art serves as a bridge between her unique perception and the external world. Michelle’s work is not just a visual expression but a profound means of communication, allowing her to convey emotions, thoughts, and experiences that words often fail to capture.
Her work is inspired by a myriad of themes, all rooted in her personal experiences and observations. The natural world, with its many patterns and colours, is a constant source of inspiration.
Michelle’s creative process involves breaking down an image and restructuring it bit by bit, a method that reflects her perception of her surroundings. This approach gives each small part of the composition equal status, challenging the traditional idea of a main focal point. Through this technique, Michelle invites viewers to experience the world from her perspective, where every small detail holds significance and contributes to the overall narrative.
Patterns and repetition are central to her work, serving both as a form of stimming and a working meditation. The repetitive nature of creating patterns provides a sense of calm and focus, allowing her to connect with her art in a deeply personal way. This practice is meditative, helping Michelle to process her thoughts and emotions while creating an organic and rhythmic structure within the painting.
