My name is Michelle “Chelle” Brantley. I am a self-taught painter, and I am a native of Oakland, CA. I have been painting, mostly portraits by commission, for more than twenty years. As far as I can remember, I have always been fascinated with the many facets of artistic expression – whether it is music, poetry, theater, fine art, etc. My fascination with all the different types of art is what inspires me to paint and is often the driving force behind the intensity of my work. My inspiration also comes from what I see, feel, and experience. When I’m not painting portraits, I am painting pieces that are emotional, thought provoking, and spiritual.
Until recently, I have never really considered myself as an artist. Drawing and tracing pictures from album covers and magazines was one of my many hobbies, growing up. I didn’t realize that I could paint until after my father passed away in 1992. I was going through a heavy depression at that time, and somehow I ended up in an art supply store in San Francisco buying brushes, paints and other supplies. I have been painting ever since. That was Divine Intervention because without God, my life could have gone in a completely different and negative direction.
Although I have been painting for over twenty years, I consider myself an emerging artist, because now I am actively showing my artwork to the public. Through word of mouth, I have been commissioned to paint various portraits for people throughout the years. I have also had the opportunity to paint the front of a very large birthday card for Halle Berry.
Looking forward, I hope to gain more exposure with my artwork both nationally and internationally.