In the labyrinth of life, where the path is often obscured by personal trials and tribulations, some individuals find solace and purpose through their creative expression. One such extraordinary individual is Michel Varisco Gleason, a creative visionary whose art tells a story of resilience, transformation, and discovery. This article delves into the artistic journey of Michel Varisco Gleason, exploring how her personal experiences have shaped her unique creative vision.
Early Artistic Beginnings
The Joy of Repetition
Michel’s artistic journey began in a rather unconventional manner. As a young girl, she occupied her mind with repetitive, seemingly mundane tasks. She recalls making $1 per sheet stationery with the same flower drawn repeatedly. This early foray into art, though simple, was a foundational experience that hinted at her future creative endeavors. The act of drawing the same flower over and over wasn’t just busy work; it was a practice in patience and precision, setting the stage for her later artistic explorations.
Imitating and Innovating
During her high school years, Michel attempted to emulate the doodles of her older brother, Vinnie. While she didn’t quite succeed in replicating his style, this experience was pivotal in shaping her understanding of artistic expression. The challenge of imitation versus innovation taught her the value of finding her unique voice rather than merely copying others.
| Fact | Description |
| Name | Michel Varisco Gleason |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Photographer, artist, and filmmaker |
| Known for | Documenting the effects of climate change and human impact on the environment |
| Notable works | “Love Letter to the Earth” (photography series), “Between There and Here” (film) |
| Genre | Environmental photography, documentary filmmaking |
A Transformative College Experience
Symbolic Notes
Michel’s artistic experimentation continued through her college years. She adopted a unique method of communication by writing notes using only symbols. This phase was more than just a quirky habit; it represented a deeper exploration of language and expression, setting the stage for her future art forms.
The Left-Handed Switch
A significant shift in Michel’s life occurred when she transitioned from being right-handed to left-handed in college. This change wasn’t merely physical; it symbolized a broader transformation in her approach to art and life. The switch challenged her to rethink her methods and adapt to new ways of creating, ultimately enriching her artistic process.
A Life-Altering Diagnosis
Facing ALS
In 2011, Michel’s life took a dramatic turn when her husband, Steve Gleason, was diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). At just 34 years old, Steve faced a devastating diagnosis that significantly impacted Michel’s life. ALS, a paralyzing and terminal illness, presented a bleak prognosis with a life expectancy of 2-5 years, though the choice of a tracheostomy offered a glimmer of extended life with continuous care.
The Birth of Rivers
Amid this upheaval, michel varisco gleason and Steve welcomed their son, Rivers, in 2011. The birth of their child brought both joy and added complexity to their lives, adding a layer of emotional depth to Michel’s journey.
The Dark Ages
Navigating Grief and Anxiety
The months surrounding Steve’s tracheostomy surgery marked what Michel refers to as ‘the dark ages.’ This period was characterized by relentless grief, fear, and anxiety. Michel found herself grappling with the overwhelming sadness of a life that had deviated from what she had envisioned. The emotional and physical exhaustion, along with feelings of guilt and resentment, cast a long shadow over her daily existence.
The Healing Power of Art
During this tumultuous period, michel varisco gleason discovered an old sketch pad with a single drawing she had created. Bringing it to the hospital during one of Steve’s surgeries, she began to draw again. This creative outlet became a sanctuary, providing her with moments of contentment and peace amid the chaos. Drawing offered a temporary escape from her relentless mental turmoil and rekindled a sense of pride and joy in her life.
The Emergence of a Unique Artistic Style
From Abstract to Symbolic
As Michel continued to draw, her creations began to evolve into abstract forms that felt almost like a new language. These forms were not immediately understandable to her, but they represented a powerful expression of what she couldn’t articulate verbally. This phase marked the birth of her unique artistic style, characterized by abstract and symbolic elements.
Inspiration from Ancient Art
A pivotal moment in Michel’s artistic journey came when a friend recommended visiting the Egyptian Exhibit at the Louvre. Immersed in the world of ancient hieroglyphics, Michel was struck by the striking similarities between her abstract forms and ancient Egyptian symbols. This revelation was both exhilarating and affirming, suggesting a deep, almost mystical connection between her art and ancient traditions.
A Connection to Ancestry
Discovering Roots in Palermo
Michel’s exploration didn’t end at the Louvre. Her travels to Palermo, Sicily—a place rich in her ancestral history—further deepened her sense of connection to her past. The gritty beauty of Palermo resonated with her, adding another layer of meaning to her artistic expressions. Michel began to entertain the possibility that her artistic lineage might trace back to ancient Egypt, a thought that filled her with both awe and inspiration.
Art as a Source of Light
Through her art, Michel has found a renewed sense of purpose and joy. It has become more than just a hobby; it is a beacon of light in her life, restoring some of the brightness she had lost during her period of hardship. Sharing her art with family, friends, and a broader audience has been an immensely fulfilling experience for her.
Sharing the Artistic Vision
Impact on Family and Friends
Michel’s art has become a source of pride and connection for her family and friends. The personal nature of her creations, infused with her journey through adversity, resonates deeply with those around her. It serves as a testament to her resilience and creative spirit.
Reaching a Wider Audience
Beyond her immediate circle, Michel’s work is now reaching a wider audience. Her unique artistic vision, born from personal trials and enriched by historical and cultural influences, has captured the attention and admiration of many. This broader recognition is a testament to the power of art as a means of communication and healing.
Conclusion
Michel Varisco Gleason’s artistic journey is a powerful narrative of transformation and discovery. From her early days of repetitive drawing to the profound impact of her husband’s illness and the subsequent evolution of her artistic style, Michel’s story is one of resilience and creative rebirth. Her art, deeply intertwined with her personal experiences, has become a symbol of hope and renewal. Through her unique expressions, Michel has not only found a new purpose but also shared a piece of her soul with the world.
FAQs About michel varisco gleason
What inspired Michel Varisco Gleason to start drawing again?
Michel rediscovered her love for drawing during a difficult period when her husband was undergoing surgery. Drawing provided her with a much-needed escape from the emotional turmoil she was experiencing.
How did Michel’s college experience influence her art?
Michel’s switch from being right-handed to left-handed in college challenged her to adapt and explore new ways of creating, which enriched her artistic process and style.
What role did ancient Egyptian art play in Michel’s artistic journey?
Michel was inspired by the Egyptian Exhibit at the Louvre, where she saw similarities between her abstract forms and ancient hieroglyphics. This connection influenced her artistic direction and deepened her sense of cultural heritage.
How has Michel’s art impacted her personal life?
Michel’s art has provided her with a source of joy and pride, helping her navigate the challenges she has faced and reconnecting her with a sense of purpose and creativity.
What is the significance of Michel’s art for her family and friends?
Michel’s art has become a meaningful part of her relationships with family and friends, offering them insight into her experiences and serving as a testament to her resilience and creative spirit.