Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Tholen.
Hi Michelle, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Inspired by restrained color and order, I am challenged to create pop using color combination that is refined, suggesting more.
Self-taught, I learned to paint studying concepts of Rothko. I find fulfillment creating art on the side. Color fields was my first step into the art world, later moving to landscapes. Inspired by color, I seek to create color spaces that match a sensory effect and spectra of light within primary colors.
Educated and working as an accountant, the I found fulfillment creating art on the side when I wasn’t working. Following my passion, “Color & Form” was the first step into the art world. I left a career in public accounting when I realized that audit and tax didn’t satisfy my creative desires. I recognized my artistic talent and, as a self-taught artist, specialize in contemporary modern art that is driven with a passion for design and creativity.
Since 97′, I have created hundreds of works and curated numerous shows and exhibits throughout the Bay Area. Inspired by Turner, Rothko, and Pollock, my work is a reflection.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
When I look back on the many years, I’d say the road has been pretty smooth. I have a great network of family and friends that support me. I’m so grateful to have a passion and pleasure in being creative. If there was any real struggle along the way, in the get-go, paying the bills.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Inspired by restrained color and order, I am challenged to create pop using color combination that is refined, suggesting more. Self-taught, I learned to paint studying concepts of Rothko. I find fulfillment creating art on the side. Color fields was my first step into the art world, later moving to landscapes. Inspired by color, I seek to create color spaces that match a sensory effect and spectra of light within primary colors.
I developed my artistic side pretty young. I had a drawing class, 1 of 2 of my only art classes in my entire life, in the 5th grade the second a drawing class a few years ago just for fun. One day, I remember taking one of my drawings home, and my mom was so thrilled. She was so pleased with how I was doing in the class, so I kept drawing. I’d keep sketchbooks around, my constant hobby. I kept drawing because my mom admired my work, and I enjoyed it. She made me feel good about what I created. She framed my work and put it on the wall. I was inspired to continue.
I recently composed a piece in the Rothko style using gold and teal; it sold within two weeks! I’m a perfectionist and constantly trying to improve and refine my work.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Network and make many friends in person. Know who are your dearest friends and cherish them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.michelletholen.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/michelletholenfineart
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/hxAsutujSTU
