"Looking at the obvious, close observation and engagement of the subject, and then amplifying it with three-dimensional texture and bold color. I push beyond the norm to create an innovation in which the viewer becomes engaged with the painting on various levels; a painting, a sculpture, and countless paper wrinkles creating complexity and detail. Transforming shape and movement into a protruding creation.  Is it a sculpture or is it a painting? I proclaim it is both. I was never satisfied with the simplicity of a one-dimensional painting, so I considered another element to a fundamental concept.
 
Tissue paper is formed, compressed and glued to the canvas to create a three-dimensional work of art. After drying time has occurred, bold color is applied giving the art even more theatrics. The energy and movement of the piece vibrates as if having a pulse. My subject matter consists of land dwellers, nature, living off the land, mountain living, and the human struggle. Awakening an uncomplicated lifestyle".          Michelle Larsen

Michelle Larsen graduated from the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design in Denver, Colorado in 1980. She specialized in outdoor advertising, lettering and sign painting. She went on the paint billboards and signs in Denver, Colorado. In 2009 Michelle started her fine art career and in 2011 began sculpting canvases with paper to create a three dimensional painting.