Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Wegler
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have always been drawn to draw. I initially worked in graphite, then discovered that working in pastel was both drawing and painting, allowing vibrant use of color, and did not require the mixing and drying time of paints. To make time to paint while my children were young I was able to set up my easel in the laundry room, where I seemed to spend so much time anyway. I now works in my own studio space in Duluth, as well as outdoors year round.
An aspect I so love about my life as an artist is being able to watch the reactions on people’s faces as they view my work. I paint to capture the images that quicken the heart and I’m always delighted when I see that flash of joy in someone. Discovering pastels, compressed sticks of pigment applied to paper, I discovered my medium. Their luscious colors and the special light that finished paintings emit drew me to them.
Pastels are also easy to work with, needing nothing extra for application or clean up, which was a bonus with three small children at home. Since I’d spent so much time doing laundry as the kids grew, I set up an easel and a still life in my basement next to the washing machine. I could apply a few strokes of color between loads. It was slow going, but I finished paintings. As the children grew, I ventured out to paint and attend classes. An opportunity came to rent a studio of my own. Once out of the basement and into the light, I rejoiced in instilling that sense of light into my paintings. And I smile when I see people notice.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Time, Too many paintings needing to be created, so little time to work on them. The more I work on painting, the more ideas I get for future paintings.
Pastel paintings are not easily recognized by the public, and I am frequently asked if they are watercolors or oils. This is an opportunity for education.
There is a misunderstanding that pastels are fragile, when actually they are the most long lived compared to watercolors and oils, Pastels must be protected by glass, which can make shipping them to exhibits or customers more difficult.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Landscape and portraits are popular topics for me and my viewers.
The landscapes are painted almost exclusively outdoors, on location. I paint outdoors year round.
Portraits are most frequently done from photos, but I do prefer to meet the subject in person if possible, even for a short time.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
“We are Water” is a traveling exhibit featuring paintings of waters of Minnesota is all forms and seasons, created by myself and Cheryl LeClair Sommer.
Outdoor Painters of Minnesota and Lake Country Pastel Society offer opportunities for exhibits, continuing education, and painting opportunities.
It is my pleasure to have studio space in the Spirit of the Lake Community Arts building.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Michelleweglerart.com
- Instagram: michellewegler
- Facebook: michellewegler
