About Me - Your Creative Partner
It is said that at the crossroads, where the unexpected meet, wondrous things happen - or something like that. At any rate, my story as an artist starts at one of those crossroads.
Around 2000, my primary focus was to get pregnant with a second child. I was trying very hard and without success. Out of the blue, my sister, who gets messages and visions from the magical and mystical, called me to say that she had received a message that I was to start painting. I took that as a sign that I was unusually gifted in something that I had only dabbled in and also that it must be the key to my fertility.
When I began to paint, I did not find myself in the instant genius category. Nor was I able to have another child. However, the simple joy of expressing myself with paints was life changing and so began my long circuitous journey of being a self taught artist.
To date, I have been painting for over 25 years and have had 11 successful one-woman shows. I have participated in numerous group endeavours and juried exhibitions. My pieces hang in homes all over the world.
What do you do now?
Click on the button below for information on pricing, sizes, FAQ’s, step by step instructions and my guarantee.
About The Process
Acrylic paints are my medium of choice. They dry fast and I love the versatility and flexibility. All paintings are on a gallery depth board or canvas, varnished and ready to hang. No framing required.
We will begin with a photo of your pet. The head portrait is my wheelhouse and my passion. I start the portrait with a pencil grid directly on the canvas or board before putting down the first layer of paint. Layer by layer the portrait is built up. It is important to get the basics down, paying attention to light and form. Then the details are added.
Some paintings are more difficult than others, some need more nurturing and tweaking. Every painting gets the right amount of time it needs before it’s finished.
Commissions and meeting expectations can be challenging. Having said that, it is my intention that you are completely satisfied with the finished product. I am very reasonable and approachable. My people skills and my sense of humour were honed through ten years waitressing in Banff, a world class tourism destination - back in my younger ski bum days.
What do clients have to say?
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Romeo
“We absolutely love the painting. It is really amazing how much personality you were able to bring through in it. We’ve hung it in our room and it’s bringing us joy every morning we wake and see it! Thanks again, Michelle.”
Haden C, Victoria, BC
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Maggie
“Michelle has managed to capture our sweet Maggie's essence and personality. She (Maggie) has been an old soul since the day we brought her home from the animal shelter. Most people that see this portrait for the first time think that it is a photograph, the detail is so clear. In fact it's much better than a photograph because Michelle truly brings it to life!”
Janice S. Regina. Sask.
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Keola
“Michelle is intuitive - she can connect into the spirit and the personality of the animal - whether they are alive or not. This, along with her strong artistic ability, makes all the difference. The resulting painting captured the essence of our dog. A true reminder of his spirit. Magical.”
Karen V., Comox, BC
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Jax
“We love this portrait of Jax! Right down to the gleam in his eye! Michelle’s work speaks for itself. She is an amazing artist with tons of talent.”
Susan J, Cobble Hill, BC
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Jones
“Michelle is a marvel. Her work and attention to detail is unmatched. When I opened the painting of my dog, Jones, I broke down into tears of joy. I don’t know how she did it, but she captured his very soul.”
Morgan M, Lumsden, Sask
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Sloan
“I didn’t even know what to say. The paintings arrived and they were even better than the photos that Michelle sent. She has totally captured our fur babies and we will treasure these paintings forever. I can’t stop looking at them. They are perfect. ”
Tracey M, Salt Spring Island, BC
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Yeti
“We are amazed how Michelle captured our Yeti. The eyes are so real and loving, a testimony to the love that went into creating this piece of art!”
Dianna G, Squamish, BC
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Niko
“I have commissioned two portraits from Michelle. She has an incredible eye for the subtle details that makes each animal a member of the family, not just a pet. I find her artwork heartfelt and genuine with a depth that goes beyond the acrylic medium she uses.”
Noah T, Victoria, BC
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Cooper
“Michelle is a highly skilled and compassionate pet portrait artist who excels at capturing the essence and the unique character of your pet while also connecting with them on a spiritual level. If you are looking for someone to create a meaningful and soulful portrait of your beloved pet, I can’t recommend Michelle more. Her work truly stands out.”
Jen T, Squamish, BC