Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Kee.
Michelle, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Not exactly sure how I started. As a child, I remember always being interested in art. I have drawings that reach as far back as elementary school. When other kids were playing, I would often be in the house sketching portraits of models in magazines. I alway enjoyed creating all kinds art, drawings, paintings, and sculptures and it stayed a passionate hobby of mine throughout my life. When I was college, I painted on a jacket and I and everyone around me loved it. It turned into being commissioned to paint designs clothes. I’ve even had the designs I created featured in a few fashion shows and local articles. A vendor at my job asked me to paint an abstract painting. I hadn’t created on before, but he believed I could, but he challenged me to do a three-part, 7ft painting. It barely fit in my living room, but after two weeks it was complete and opened the door to a ton of commissions and growth of my craft. A couple of years later, I moved to Atlanta for a fresh start. I was stuck in the house one day and painted a portrait of Sade. The unexpected responses were so great, it propelled me to take art seriously. Since then I’ve just put in the effort; showing at smaller art shows led to bigger shows and having my own solo show. Along with marketing efforts and word of mouth, my growth has been tremendous and I’ve finally confirmed that this is my passion. I don’t mind losing sleep or missing “fun” events, so I can finish a piece. The love for it is there and shows in each and every piece.
Has it been a smooth road?
Definitely has not been a smooth road, but then again, when you really love something you just keep going. Some of my struggles have been mentally being confident in my work and knowing this is all a marathon. When you are facing rejections for galleries and shows it can be a hurdle. Another struggle is not being “well known.” It’s harder to reach people and get yourself out there to the right people but the more I am out meeting people and introducing them to my art, the more well known I am becoming and being invited for shows and events versus asking or submitting to them. The growth comes from the work.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am an artist that works in many mediums but mainly focuses on acrylic works. Mostly know for working in bright colors as a portrait artist. I am most proud of how far people go to support me and push my business to the next level. I feel that what sets me apart is my versatility in what I create and how it easily shows from the finished piece.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Yes, being in Atlanta provides almost unlimited opportunities to move forward. There are consistent shows, big and small, and anyone can be here at any given point. Starting here can give you great visibility to put you in the room with the right people.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mkeeart.com
- Email: mkeeart@gmail.com
- Instagram: @mkeeart
Getting in touch: VoyageATL 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.
