Artist Bio

Michelle Helen Phaneuf is a contemporary multidisciplinary artist who enjoys working in mixed media, collage, textiles and paint exploring both large-scale immersive work and small-scale, intimate pieces. The US born artist produces thought-provoking artwork that comments on disability, specifically her experience with invisible neurological symptoms. She strongly advocates for better understanding of chronic migraine disorder. ​​ 

Her work has been featured in local businesses as well as the North River Arts Society Juried Show. Phaneuf continues to broaden her professional practice, exploring familiar patterns through new mediums and techniques. Her upcoming projects include incorporating self portraiture into her work on chronic migraine disorder, drawing connections between the visual patterns she sees during neurological episodes and the patterns seen in historical religious art and architecture. 

Outside of the studio, Michelle teaches art to high school students with autism spectrum disorder. She is passionate about helping them build confidence in their ability to express themselves and make creative choices. A lifelong lover of art history, Michelle emphasizes the human need to create and draws connections between her students’ work and that of our global ancestors. Her classes emphasize skill building through fine and gross-motor skills practice to help students to gain muscle strength, dexterity, visual-motor and bilateral coordination skills.