ARTIST: MICHELLE L

Michelle is a native St. Louisan who creates figurative and abstract paintings that are multi-layered in color and texture, incorporating materials like glass, clay, cardboard, gesso, and wood. Her paintings range in size from medium to large. Michelle’s figurative works are inspired by revolutionary singers, athletes, political figures, and social activists she admires, all of whom possess a sense of radicalness in advocating for social and political reform or justice. She has a deep admiration for those who use their platforms to advance social, educational, and economic development.

Her love for art was born from escapism, and she found it to be a therapeutic outlet. Wanting to share this experience with others, Michelle creates environments that feel safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental. She hosts art therapy classes that promote self-awareness through conversation, music, and creative activities like painting or working with clay.

One of her proudest accomplishments was serving as the art director for The Artist Village of the Saint Louis World’s Fare, where she met local creatives, selected artists for vending events, and played a role in installations. Michelle is also passionate about visiting inner-city schools to discuss her career as an artist and its connection to education and earning a living. Her installation at the Ferguson Public Library, which centered around the Mike Brown protests, stands as one of the proudest moments in her art career.

The name of the Mural is “REFRAMING NARRATIVES”. At the center of the mural are the children, the next generation, the future of this community, the city and country. The parents are framing the children, teaching them the importance of education, focus, strategy and positive affirmations. Like many families the parents are the two halves that make a whole.

Restoring, reframing and adding highlight to the image of the happy, healthy, productive Beautiful Black American Family rejoicing in the knowledge of their rich history and ancestral lineage. One of O’fallon Neighbors Parks traditions is where to go and play the game of Chess. Chess is a fun hobby and also a game of mental exercise. Framing the mural is flowers and “The Egress Bird,” which have made O’fallon Neighbors Park their home seasonally for many decades.

I was given a list of narratives or affirmations by Karen Greer, the owner of the building where the mural is painted, that ultimately inspired the design. In addition, these affirmations are painted on the spine of the books in the mural. I’m inspired by the opportunity of giving a community life by using art to beautify it. Making it feel welcoming and safe for the community, family, tourists and photographers.

The power of education,
A beautiful existence blossoms from persistence,
Love yourself and who you are to you,
Be a blessing to others around you,
My prosperity is limitless,
My mental health matters,
Support our local businesses,
I am not defined by my current situation,
I can create a new reality,
I am filled with hope and optimism for my community,
I am worthy of financial stability and security,
I am confident in my abilities to make a positive change in the O’Fallon Neighborhood I am worthy,
of a fresh start and a new beginning,
I am surrounded by love and support, even if I cannot see it.