Meet Michelle Pugh

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Pugh.

Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey as an artist began as a child. I have always been creative and expressed myself through art. I worked many years as a hairstylist and didn’t pursue it until I tragically lost my mom when I was 37.

My therapy during that time was smashing things to create mosaics. Putting broken pieces together in a new way symbolized what I was experiencing. When I went through my divorce a few years later, it really became therapeutic. It was then that I realized my dream to become an artist was something I had to do. I had many successes as a mosaic artist and am so grateful for all of the support that I received.

I went on to become an art teacher and, just a few years ago, decided to leave so I could focus on my art. I have since hung up my hammer and picked up my paintbrush. I enjoy painting so much, it really takes me into such a peaceful zen-like place. In reflection, I’m no longer feeling sad or angry in my life, so smashing things has been put to rest.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I am a nature-inspired artist, so one of the challenges I have faced living in Phoenix is the heat.

During the summers, when it’s so hot, and I am limited in getting outside, I have to force myself to wake up early to take a walk. I am not a morning person, so this is challenging!

One of my favorite spots is the Desert Botanical Garden, where I can immerse myself in the beauty of the desert. Each summer I do escape for a bit and head back to California to dip my toes in the ocean.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I work primarily in watercolors and acrylics. My paintings are inspired by the beautiful things I see in nature. I really enjoy making handmade cards from my watercolor art.

I am very sentimental, so I love the idea of sending someone a hand-painted card that the recipient can frame and have a lasting memory. I am also known for my digital illustrations, which are modern, colorful interpretations of desert plants, ocean seascapes, and beautiful flowers. I am really proud of my affirmation deck, which will be coming out in July of this year.

It’s a labor of love full of positive nature-inspired affirmations and my watercolor paintings. Affirmations have been such an important part of my life journey. They are like life’s little cheerleaders guiding you towards your best self. I am so excited to be able to help others in their journey. A little positivity can go a long way!

So, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you before we go? How can they support you?
There are many ways to support me as an artist.

Following me on my social media channels really helps, and likes, comments, and shares are very much appreciated. Making any purchase, big or small, is a great way to help build my business, and leaving a review shows other people that they can have confidence in their purchase.

I can be reached at modbloomart@gmail.com for collaborations.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://modbloomart.etsy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mod.bloom
• Twitter: https://x.com/modbloomart
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModBloomArt
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@modbloomart