Description

American born Michelle Betancourt has made a name for herself in her ancestral home of Colombia and elsewhere for her textured artworks overflowing with bold colors and multicultural religious icons. Visually captivating and soul inspiring, her works invite the viewer to immerse themselves into dynamic and spiritual world of their own beliefs and creation.

There is something naturally self-assured about American born Columbian painter Michelle Betancout; Her paintings perform off the canvas with little reservation and call to the viewer with a playful, spirited and direct voice. Perhaps this innate confidence is a product of Michelle’s artistic family heritage that cultivated a sensitivity and love of the arts at a young age. Born in New Haven, Connecticut, Michelle displayed an aptitude for the arts from childhood and overflowed with creativity as a ballet dancer and piano musician. Eventually her heart led her to paint and she received her degree as a certified painter and fashion designer in C.E.N.C.A.B.A. in Barranquilla Colombia South America where she now lives and works.

Michelle’s paintings vibrate with courageous colors, bold textures and evocative shapes. The result? A mesmerizing and visually energizing artwork that is nearly impossible not to lose oneself in. Although whimsical and dynamic, her work finds it’s grounding in the spiritual and mystical realms and features religious icons, figures, and elements from diverse cultures and religions. Exploring the relationship between religious gods, internal forces, and cultural spirits, Michelle’s paintings are a conduit for her own joy and spiritual process. The naturally poetic and reflexive nature of her work invites the same profound introspection from the viewer.

In addition to her artwork, Michelle lends her heart and spirit to others as an avid humanitarian and charitable volunteer. She works passionately to organize events and collect funds to help nurture the artistic expression and education of childhood cancer patients. Michelle’s dedication has helped more than 5,000 children in need transform their lives, health and well-being. She currently volunteers for Bread & Panela Foundation of the Atlántico, in Barranquilla, Columbia as well as several other organizations.