Today we’d like to introduce you to Michele Renee Sherlock.
Los Angeles based contemporary, abstract artist, Michele Sherlock, was born and raised in Ohio. She has lived in three of the largest cities in the U.S., New York City, Chicago, and now, Los Angeles. Her artistic influences began when she married her husband of 30 years, Greg, who is an architect, designer, painter, and furniture builder. Michele and Greg’s love of travel has brought them to Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and almost every state in the U.S. During these travels, Michele would plan visits to the local art museums and significant architectural sites. “I travel to absorb the local culture and study significant local artists.” Michele is a self-educated artist, working with acrylics and mixed media. Michele’s artistic mentor is an international, award-winning, contemporary, abstract artist, Clara Berta. Michele is currently taking part in a group art exhibition with Ojai, CA-based Brittany Davis Gallery, and a group show with Buckwild Gallery in MarVista, CA. Michele was recently featured in VoyageLA Magazine, noted as “a female leader and role model living in Los Angeles.” She has studied with abstract artist, Daniel Diaz-Tai, abstract artist Clara Berta, and collage artist Kathy Leader, and currently enjoys working in her studio in downtown Los Angeles.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
My art career has been a huge learning curve for me with some challenges, but mostly joy-filled days painting in my studio in downtown Los Angeles. The first barrier is learning to let go of control and letting your creativity flow. Don’t worry about making some terrible art that will end up in the dumpster, because several pieces will be gems that you can build upon. The second challenge was finding talented painting instructors that I felt were a match for my learning style. I realized fairly quickly that enormous talent does not take the place of a kind human being that finds joy in watching you thrive in your practice. Select an artistic mentor and give back to them more than they give to you. The final message for younger women just starting out is, it takes time to find your “artistic voice.” You cannot think your way to your artistic voice, you must paint frequently and continuously, and your voice will emerge over time. I promise!
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I paint contemporary, abstract art. I specialize in color exploration, color combinations, and texture. I am known for “drama”, not in m personal life, but in each piece that I paint. I love beautiful surprises, so I apply paint and texture, and then remove some of the paint and texture to reveal what is underneath. You can somewhat plan what colors will be revealed underneath, but not completely, so there is always the element of surprise. I have traveled around the world and visited museums and architectural sites too numerous to count. I did not realize at the time, how taking in all this artwork would eventually influence my painting style. I typically enjoyed contemporary and modern/abstract art. I knew from the beginning of my practice, that I would focus on non-objective shapes, colors, and textures that came from my mind and heart. I am very proud of the honesty and integrity of my artwork, and my business practices. My artwork is a product of the lessons I have learned over my life, and the thriving cultures I have experienced. Travel and having an open mind has paid off for me in terms of my painting career.
What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
The most important piece of advice I could give to a younger woman just starting their career is to surround yourself with optimistic and supportive people. If they are not cheering you on, and lifting you up, then limit your time with them.
Contact Info:
- Address: Michele Renee Sherlock Fine Art
1000 South Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90015 - Website: www.michelereneesherlock.com
- Phone: 913-669-5001
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @michelereneesherlock
- Facebook: michelereneesherlockfineart
Image Credit:
Michele Sherlock
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