about
my self
I create from the places I once hid — the humor, the ache, the beauty sitting right inside the mess of being human.
Art didn’t politely show up for me; it dragged me in. Painting, writing, and photographing became the way I translated the chaos, the milestones, the grief, the weirdness, and all the truths that lived in my head long before I had the guts to say them out loud. After years of being told to quiet down, I finally didn’t.
Welcome to the loudest, rawest, most colorful version of me.
When I’m not painting, I’m writing, taking a ton of photos, editing, cooking, baking, or watching everything from indie films and 1980s comedies to horror movies like they’re comfort food. My tastes are eclectic and a little off-the-wall — which is exactly the point. It’s the only way I know how to live honestly.
my process
Regardless of the medium, my work is imagined from the layers of my life — the color, the texture, the memories — and is fueled by the guts of lived experience.
my days
I create out of the North Shore of Massachusetts, usually covered in paint (as are my walls, lightwitches, and every piece of clothing I own), with my dog casually watching me run circles around a canvas with a paintbrush in both hands, paint flying, and my headphones on GenX levelloud. If my work speaks to you, reach out anytime. I love when art starts a conversation — real talk is real life.
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I am primarily a mixed-media artist who often blends acrylics on canvas with tattoo ink, spray paint, and various materials that create unique textures. Occasionally, I use a heat gun, and other times my husband humorously rolls his eyes as I spray a piece with a shower head to achieve unexpected textures and patterns before applying three, four, or even more additional layers.
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My photography passion started in my early twenties. Though I didn’t work professionally, my love for portraiture—especially black and white—and seaside scenes has grown. I’m drawn to how they capture emotion, detail, and natural light. I often pause to photograph striking designs before moving on.
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I began writing poetry as a young girl, before I even understood what it was. I enjoy writing short stories and am currently working on my first novel, which has been in progress for almost twenty years. Creative writing has often helped me express myself in a way that brought comfort. Looking back at the poems and stories I have written over the years transports me back to those moments; the power of words is something I cherish and respect deeply.
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See my work on Instagram:
@michellegattawheelerDon’t miss my first solo show at the Beverly Public Library in January 2026!