Dive into an intimate and deeply personal conversation with Michele Usibelli, award-winning fine artist celebrated for her expressive use of color, bold brushwork, and emotionally charged compositions. In this episode of the AART Podcast with Chris Stafford, Michele opens up about her artistic evolution, the joys and challenges of a creative life, and how she continues to cultivate authenticity through her work. From early inspirations and pivotal career moments to reflections on the spiritual, emotional, and technical aspects of painting, Michele shares a vulnerable and insightful look into her artistic process. Her story encourages listeners to embrace curiosity, take creative risks, and find meaning in every stroke—both on the canvas and beyond. Whether you’re an artist, collector, student, or admirer of contemporary fine art, this conversation offers rare insight into a soul-driven creative journey. Join us as we explore color, identity, and what it truly means to live a life devoted to art.

✅ Keywords:
 Michele Usibelli, Michele Usibelli artist, fine artist interview, contemporary fine art, painting, colorist, AART Podcast, Chris Stafford, creative process, artist studio, art podcast, personal interview, emotional art, impressionist painting, expressive art, women in art, artistic journey, modern fine art, art education, artist storytelling, art inspiration, creativity, brushwork, plein air, art collecting, art techniques, artist spotlight

BIO
Fine Artist, Michele Usibelli, whose work ranges from landscapes and animals to still life and figurative art. A Washington State native Michele was born in Seattle in 1962 then spent time in Utah and Alaska before returning to Edmonds, WA where she divides her time with another studio in Montana. Michele is the eldest of three children—she has two brothers—to John Hampson (d) a former navy serviceman and realtor, and mother Carol who was a home-maker, pianist and seamstress. Michele’s childhood was spent mostly outdoors and playing sport. She was she says something of a tomboy, and she also followed in her mother’s footsteps by playing the piano and sewing. Michele’s interest in fine drawing led her to study architecture at the University of Washington and pursue corporate architecture. She also worked as Director of Marketing for the National Park Service, which involved extensive traveling. It was while she was on a business trip to Denali, AK that she met her husband, and after raising her three children—Nathan, Jacqueline and Angelina, that Michele returned to her love of art. Aside from painting most of the week, she also teaches workshops. Michele has won numerous awards, including the Silver Medal Award at the prestigious Salmagundi Club, NYC and the UCI Institute and Museum of California Art Award. Her work is in the permanent collection at the University of Alaska Fairbanks/Museum of the North the Brinton Museum/Wyoming, and her painting "First Light, Pioneer Mill Smokestack", was acquired by the State of Hawaii for their permanent collection. Michele lives in Edmonds, Washington State with her husband Mitch.
 
Michele’s website: https://www.micheleusibelli.com/about
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/micheleusibelliart/
 
Michele’s playlist: One Eskimo - Kandi, Amazing Amos Lee-Windows Are Rolled Down Lord Huron - The Night We Met Two Feet - Winter Alt J - U&ME BORNS - God Save Our Young Blood Dennis Loyd - Nevermind Absofacto - Dissolve Moby - Love of Strings BORNS - Man Two Feet - Quick Musical Doodles Sir Sly - High Michael Kiwanuka - Love & Hate
 
Michele’s favorite female artists:
Susan Woolgar
Kellie Weeks
Abigail Gutting
Ingrid Christensen
Wendy Conklin/Upholstery
Annie Leibovitz
Mary Cassatt (d)
Berthe Morisot (d) 

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
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Email: [email protected]


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