Connect
To Top

Meet Michelle Nguyen of MichyMichelleBelle Art in Seal Beach and Temecula

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Nguyen.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
They say that we sometimes hit bumps on life’s highway, I did in 2015. Major events took place in my life that forever changed my outlook in life and the way I feel. That time marked the worst year for me. The path I was on shook and broke away and everything shattered around me. My father’s health worsened day by day with every visit home. My father was the anchor to my life and the rock in which I leaned on but I knew he was slipping away. During this time, I buried myself with distractions to avoid the new emotions that were now invading me. Art became a new-found solace in a time of difficulties. Growing up, I had a deep appreciation for art around me. I would find local art events, and art museums to attend on a daily basis. Art captures the unseen beauties of the world and that intrigued me.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I started drawing in the year of 2015 after my father’s passing. I can’t say it has been completely smooth but I have worked really hard researching and practicing how to achieve my best level in color pencils. Color pencils are one of the most time-consuming media used to create art. My works can take me anywhere between 30 hours to 70 hours to create one piece. It’s a layer upon layer of colors and time. It has taught a great deal of patience. Each detail is vital for me to draw in order to bring each piece to life. I have been told that an artist is their worst critic but that drives me try to improve.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the MichyMichelleBelle Art story. Tell us more about the business.
I am known for being a realism portrait color pencil artist. At the moment, I am working on creating a book that will contain all my artwork along with the stories of the humans that I have drawn hoping that I can raise awareness on social injustices that go in our world.

The opportunities that I have been given a chance to be part in is the thing that makes me most proud as an artist. You can find me in Art Muzeo’s magazine, Collective Minds Magazine and Future Artist Blog. The biggest thing that sets me apart is my determination and focus.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
After hearing about Kesha’s case against Dr. Luke, I felt drawn by it. It was a case about sexual assault and a record company unwillingness to break a contract. Something came over me, and I knew I had to draw her in order to raise awareness around the case.

After posting the drawing on Instagram, some of her fans started tagging her into the drawing which drew her attention to my Instagram account. I am forever grateful to have had that moment.

Pricing:

  • Portraits $1200

Contact Info:

Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in

  • Portraits of Hollywood

    It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them...

    Local StoriesMay 19, 2025
  • LA’s Most Inspiring Stories

    Every neighborhood in LA has its own vibe, style, culture and history, but what consistently amazes us is not what differentiates...

    Local StoriesMay 19, 2025
  • Portraits of the Valley

    It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them...

    Local StoriesMay 12, 2025
  • Hidden Gems: Local Businesses & Creatives You Should Know

    Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a...

    Local StoriesMay 5, 2025
  • Portraits of LA

    It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them...

    Local StoriesApril 18, 2025
  • VoyageLA Gift Guide: Services Spotlights

    Our goal as a publication is to encourage more folks to spend their dollars with small businesses, artists and creatives.  Our...

    Local StoriesDecember 15, 2024
  • VoyageLA Gift Guide: Experiences to Consider

    Our goal as a publication is to encourage more folks to spend their dollars with small businesses, artists and creatives.  Our...

    Local StoriesDecember 15, 2024
  • VoyageLA Gift Guide: Products from the Community

    Our goal as a publication is to encourage more folks to spend their dollars with small businesses, artists and creatives.  Our...

    Local StoriesDecember 14, 2024
  • Podcast: Your Journey As An Actress

    We’re so lucky to have a great guest with us today to discuss your journey as an actress and so much...

    Partner SeriesOctober 22, 2024