Michele K McLaren Portfolios

My work delves into the complexities of the human experience. Through abstraction and bold, symbolic forms, I capture the essence of this experience. On an intimate level, I explore the human psyche, reflecting on the fluidity of our emotions and moods. Expanding outward, I examine how this internal state, alongside deeply held beliefs, shapes our identities, weaves through our relationships, and ripples outward, touching the broader canvas of society to reveal the multifaceted nature of humanity—its profound connections, complexities, and the darker side of human nature.

The purpose of my art does not reside solely in its physical form. My work seeks to create an ongoing, profound dialogue about the human experience. Each painting is part of a named series, offering a loose framework for exploration. While most pieces are simply numbered to encourage open interpretation, a few are named to provide subtle context—echoes of my original intention. These titles serve as starting points, inviting viewers to complete the meaning with their own emotional and intellectual responses.

As I explored the inner landscape of the mind, I realized that the only way to fully express the complexity of our moods and emotions was through bold compositions—some vivid and vibrant, others muted and dark—all utilizing symbolic forms and blended hues. The fluidity and subtle transitions inherent in this style became essential for navigating the intricacies of the mind, allowing me to capture the ephemeral ebb and flow of our feelings and moods.

However, when I turned my attention to representing the broader human experience, I discovered that minimalist, symbolic imagery provided the clearest path. Stripping away unnecessary detail allowed me to focus on the fundamental ways emotions and beliefs shape identity, relationships, and society. This approach offers a stark lens through which to examine humanity’s extremes—our capacity for profound connection and potential for devastation.

My intent is not to impose a particular perspective, but rather to invite introspection and encourage reflection on the shared essence of the human experience, fostering thoughtful engagement with its depth, beauty, and complexity.

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Artist Statement

My work delves into the complexities of the human experience. Through abstraction and bold, symbolic forms, I capture the essence of this experience. On an intimate level, I explore the human psyche, reflecting on the fluidity of our emotions and moods. Expanding outward, I examine how this internal state, alongside deeply held beliefs, shapes our identities, weaves through our relationships, and ripples outward, touching the broader canvas of society to reveal the multifaceted nature of humanity—its profound connections, complexities, and the darker side of human nature.

The purpose of my art does not reside solely in its physical form. My work seeks to create an ongoing, profound dialogue about the human experience. Each painting is part of a named series, offering a loose framework for exploration. While most pieces are simply numbered to encourage open interpretation, a few are named to provide subtle context—echoes of my original intention. These titles serve as starting points, inviting viewers to complete the meaning with their own emotional and intellectual responses.

As I explored the inner landscape of the mind, I realized that the only way to fully express the complexity of our moods and emotions was through bold compositions—some vivid and vibrant, others muted and dark—all utilizing symbolic forms and blended hues. The fluidity and subtle transitions inherent in this style became essential for navigating the intricacies of the mind, allowing me to capture the ephemeral ebb and flow of our feelings and moods.

However, when I turned my attention to representing the broader human experience, I discovered that minimalist, symbolic imagery provided the clearest path. Stripping away unnecessary detail allowed me to focus on the fundamental ways emotions and beliefs shape identity, relationships, and society. This approach offers a stark lens through which to examine humanity’s extremes—our capacity for profound connection and potential for devastation.

My intent is not to impose a particular perspective, but rather to invite introspection and encourage reflection on the shared essence of the human experience, fostering thoughtful engagement with its depth, beauty, and complexity.

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