Artist's Statement
To me a painting must have two things to be truly successful: visual impact and psychological meaning. Perhaps that is why I am so drawn to the human face as a subject: one cannot escape psychology when one is looking it straight in the eye!
I know that a painting will have the sort of spirit that I’m looking for when its elements begin to take on symbolic meaning. Sometimes I am aware of the symbolism when choosing objects to paint; at other times they take on meaning as the painting progresses. Many times my paintings express autobiographical themes- they are self portraits, so to speak, and are one way of making sense of what is going on inside (and outside) of my head.
John Singer Sargent once said, “I don't dig beneath the surface for things that don't appear before my own eyes.” Although I hold Sargent in the highest regard, I must take a different approach. My paintings are really about relationships and experiences. To me, what is beneath the surface is everything of importance.
If I was forced to limit myself to one subject, the choice would not be difficult. I have always had a special affinity for the figure, both human and animal, and consider portraiture to be my true calling. I particularly enjoy capturing character and emotions.
Please contact me in regards to portrait commissions. I am comfortable working in oil, watercolor and charcoal either from life or from photographs, or from a combination of the two. I work with my clients to ensure that the finished piece complements its location and merits your satisfaction. Prices for custom portrait work average $3 per square inch and include consultation, photo shoot when applicable, and preliminary pieces for approval.
An original oil or watercolor portrait is a wonderful way to commemorate an auspicious occasion, honor a particular individual, bestow a special gift, or capture the personality of a precious loved one.
Thank you for your interest in my work. I'd love to hear what you think- please let me know!
About the Artist:
Anne Michelsen began her formal art training at the age of 12 under the tutelage of Milwaukee oil painter John Clark, and received her BA in art from St. Olaf College in 1991. She has shown her work both regionally in the Upper Midwest and in national exhibits, including an honorable mention in the Northwest Arkansas Branch of the National League of American Penwomen’s 12th Annual Women’s National Juried Art Exhibition.
Ms Michelsen is a member of the Wisconsin Visual Artist's Guild. Her art can be viewed at the Center for the Visual Arts, Wausau WI, and at Michelsen Music Repair and Supply in the Cedar Creek Mall, Rothschild, WI. She also is available to teach at both locations. [
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