Michele was born in Washington DC but spent much of her childhood in Europe. It was there that she was first exposed to dressage and eventing and horses became an integral part of her life. When she moved back to the United States at age 16, she focused on hunter jumper competitions which she continued for the next 30 years. She started a working horse farm outside of Charlotte, North Carolina in 1986.
Having pursued her bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees in biology, nutritional biochemistry and public health she began to concentrate on her more creative skills. Combining her science background and knowledge of anatomy with her love for animals, Michele pursued sculpting using the lost wax technique. She was extremely fortunate to find experienced artisans who contributed to her growth and development.
Michele’s work has been exhibited in galleries throughout the United States. She has taught sculpture to interested students both individually and through the Artists Guild. She is a member of the Arts Council of Moore County, Southern Pines, NC, the Sarasota City Arts Council, Sarasota, Florida, and the Charlotte Arts Council in Charlotte, North Carolina. Michele has won awards including the Campbell House Galleries Art Council Competition in Southern Pines, NC which was judged by Dr. Sarah Schroth, Nancy Hanks Senior Curator at the Nasher Museum of Art, Duke University, Durham, NC.
Artist’s Statement
The foundation of all my work is based on my science background. I have always been intrigued by how each animal’s movements are unique. Understanding the anatomy, whether it’s a horse or a hummingbird, allows me to capture their very essence.
Every piece of work begins with an idea or concept, usually one involving motion. Knowing the function and behavior of each subject is instrumental in creating a realistic work of art. To transfer the initial idea to a fully formed sculpture is the challenge.
