OUTSIDE THE FRAME
I’ve always been drawn to the bold, the unconventional — the kind of art, music, and culture that celebrates individuality. In art, some rules are meant to be broken, and breaking them is actually vital in order to grow as an artist.
As both a visual designer and painter, I bring structure and balance to my creative instincts. I want to create art that is accessible to everyone, and makes you feel the world differently, even if just for a moment.
Going back to my roots, I find answers from the artists who inspired me. I am reminded that I don’t fit into a box, and that's ok. I create my own space that integrates all my experience into a singular creative path.
Every project I take on, and every painting I create, is infused with that same spirit. The energy that first ignited me and the lessons I learned have become the purpose of my work. My art isn’t just about visuals, it’s about remembering that it's ok to be bold, to be different, and to be proud of who you are.
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Michelle Carnes is an artist, designer, and creative director whose work seamlessly blends fine art and design to transform both physical and digital spaces. With more than 20 years of experience in brand design, creative direction, and visual arts, she has a deep understanding of how art and design intersect to shape experiences, elevate spaces, and create lasting impact.
Michelle's family immigrated to the United States to put down roots in Chicago's Ukrainian Village, where her art was influenced by the traditions of her Eastern European culture.
From an early age, she had a deep passion for painting and drawing, excelling in figure drawing at the Art Institute of Chicago, starting at the age of 11.
Michelle holds an MFA from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and a BA in Visual Communications from the Colorado Institute of Art. Her extensive background in design and production, combined with a keen understanding of color and composition, allows her to craft visually compelling installations.
Michelle explores relationships between people and places, and the power of individuality. While trained to capture the physical likeness of a subject in a classic sense, Michelle’s interest lies in the world beneath the surface. She reveals the abstract energies and personal vitality of a subject.
Her fine art has been showcased in solo and group exhibitions, featured on NBC News, and presented at the Sundance Film Festival, ChefDance, South by Southwest, and Google Intersection events. She has also created installations and public art for private and corporate collections, exhibitions and events.
Michelle curently creates and shows throughout the Bay Area, Northern California, and continues to push the boundaries of where and how art can live — proving that creativity belongs everywhere.