Michele Byrne is a figurative Plein Air painter known for her social scenes and palette knife work. Michele is originally an East Coast girl, born in 1959 in Reading, PA, she spent her childhood growing up in the countryside. She was, she says, a tomboy enjoying the outdoors, but her real passion began as a small child drawing and painting, showing an early talent that was recognized by her teachers. Her parents, Sam and Fay, encouraged her artistic leaning and as the third of three children she was encouraged with art classes and given the freedom to follow her passion. At the tender age of eight, Michele decided she loved art so much that she wanted to become an artist. From 1977-1981 she attended Kutztown University in Pennsylvania from where she graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Communication Design, and Minor in Illustration/Painting. While she only took one class in mechanical drawing it was to prove invaluable in learning perspective, which has helped her with painting buildings. As a graphic designer, Michele made her way to New York but it wasn’t long before she realized she wanted to be her own boss. While marriage and raising a family would take over her life, once she divorced she discovered a freedom to pursue her career as an artist. Michele has held numerous exhibitions and solo shows, winning awards around the U.S. She is also a sought-after instructor offering plein-air workshops both online and in person across the United States, Mexico and Europe. Michele is also the author of two books entitled The Art of Conversation. In 2020, Michele moved to Sante Fe, New Mexico and is an active member of its flourishing art community. She has two sons, Colin and Seamus who have inherited her artistic gene.Host: Chris StaffordProduced by Hollowell StudiosFollow @theaartpodcast on InstagramEmail: hollowellstudios@gmail.comMichele's website:https://www.michelebyrne.com/Instagram @michelebyrneart Women artists whose work Michele admires: Ann GaleAimee EricksonZoe FrankMary CassattBerte MorisotGene KlossGeorgia O’KeefeElaine De KooningFrida Kahlo Michele’s Playlist Pink Floyd,Neil Young and Reggae Music Buddha BarHealthy living podcastsJay Shetty,Chase Jarvis,Eckhart Tolle (newest Fav is Dr. Joe Dispenza on meditation and manifesting what you want into your life)