Image by Amber Light Photography / Hair and Make-up by AC Makeup

Where do you get your inspirations?

As an artist, my core interests (cute/beautiful vs. repulsive, food consumption vs. sexual consummation, death…) remain central to my practice. I have a sketchbook where I jot down ideas all the times, whether I am travelling or having a tea with friends. I often revisit the notes when I feel “stuck.”

Some pieces just come naturally. I was shocked to find out that not everyone has images in their mind when they close their eyes. Since the beginning of time, I have always had moving images in my head whenever I close my eyes. If I relax, the images evolve on their own, just like a movie! That’s where a lot of my works come from.

When did you start making art?

Apparently, I used to draw on the living room wallpaper before I could write. When our home went through renovation, my parents cleverly involved me in choosing the new living room wallpaper. Then I switched to drawing under the living room coffee table.

I never stopped.

Why are some of your works scary?

I believe that everyone has dark thoughts. Some people release their dark energy through watching horror movies; other through playing violent video games; I through my works.

You have a wide range of styles!

No serious artist remains the same! Because artworks reflect an artist’s every other aspect in life, his/her artworks can’t possibly remain the same over a long period of time. Study any major artist, and you will know what I mean!

Do you have a favourite medium?

I love using ink pens. The intricate lines allow me to translate my complex thoughts visually!

I love vivid colours. I love the jewel-like glow oil paint exudes.

How long do your pieces take?

Depending on the size and techniques, each piece takes an average of 4 to 50+ hours.

Do you drink coffee?

I have drunk no more than 10 cups in my life. I can only drink tea, preferably non-caffeinated.

Do you prefer drawing or photography?

That’s like comparing water with food! I love the free reign of creative expression with my fine art pieces. At the same time, I can exercise my many other skills with photography assignments. I am doing both till my dying day.

How do I buy your art?

Here is a list of art galleries and shops that carry Michelle’s artworks:

ainsworth custom design
1234 cartwright street (granville island), Vancouver, bc, canada
604-682-8838

bluebottle art gallery
415 east pine street, seattle, wa, usa, 98122
206-325-1592

compound gallery
107 nw 5th avenue, portland, or, usa 97209
503-796-2733

doctor vigari gallery
1312 commercial drive, vancouver, bc, canada
604-255-9513

four corners art and frame
4305 university way ne, seattle, wa, usa, 98105
206-547-5640

frame up studios
3515 fremont avenue north, seattle, wa, usa, 98103
206-547-4657

local color–art, coffee and more…
1606 pike place, seattle, wa, usa, 98101
206-728-1717

oasis art gallery
3644 wallingford avenue n., seattle, wa, usa, 98103
1-888-35-oasis / 206-547-5177

paper art
104-106 tung ming building, 40-42 des voeux road central, central, hong kong
852-2545-8985

Each retail outlet carries different artworks and products that suit its clientele. If you are looking for something specific, feel free to phone ahead or contact the artist.

Michelle is always available for a scheduled studio visit, located in beautiful Kerrisdale, Vancouver (15 minutes from Downtown Vancouver.) Please contact her to schedule a time at your convenience.