Michelle Snead’s life long interest in art began at an early age, and she began painting in oils at the age of eleven. Her earlier paintings are landscapes and still lifes; however, over two decades ago, she turned her attention to portraits. Her talent for capturing personality coupled with her ability to work work with people brought her many commissions and accolades. Most recently she was a finalist in the Portrait Society of America’s tri-state competition. Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, her portraits hang across the country from Maine to California.

Michelle’s first degree was in English from Wake Forest University, North Carolina. After she taught high school English for five years, she changed directions, turning her love of art into a profession. After receiving numerous commissions and gaining national representation, Michelle returned to Meredith College in 1995 for a bachelor’s degree in fine art. She is now invited to lecture and demonstrate at the college level.

Michelle encourages prospects to contact her personally, for she believes that all clients must feel totally comfortable with the artist chosen to represent them. When Michelle makes a connection with her subjects on more than a surface level, she is better able to reveal their inner personality as well as their outward appearance.

Perhaps you can gauge how well her work is received by a few excerpts from letters .