Lisa J. Michaels

Art has always been a major part of my life. I can't remember a time when I wasn't drawing, painting, or creating something. It has always found its way into every aspect of my life.

My father was a very talented architect. I remember being so small that my feet dangled from the stool as I sat and watched him draw for hours. Occasionally, he would stop working and draw cartoons to entertain me. I’m pretty sure that’s how this whole thing started!

By the time I was eight I had cartoons licked, thanks to dear ol' dad! I’d moved on to realistic portraits of my baby brother and I attempted to copy works by Raphael, Rembrandt and other great masters.

My high school art teacher was incredibly supportive and urged me to never give up, no matter how difficult things were. She helped me to understand that my art was what mattered most.

As I look back over the years, I realize that drawing was the one thing that was always with me, no matter what. As long as I had a pencil and a piece of paper, it didn't matter what else was happening. I could block out everything and be at peace, letting my pencil find something inside of me that needed to be let out onto the paper. Usually it was the best part of me and I believe that even today it still is.

In March and May of 2006, I illustrated feature stories for "Wee One's" on-line magazine for kids. I was also honored as the “Spotlight Guest” in the May edition, along with the publication of my “kid friendly” bio.

I have participated in countless fine art shows throughout the State of Florida, presented illustration workshops in many elementary schools, and recently I gave a presentation, “Through the eyes of the Illustrator” at the University of Florida’s creative writing class.

In November of last year, I had a showing in the Children’s Art Gallery of the Pasco County Library, depicting the making of a Picture Book. The collection included 45+ illustrations and was well received by the public and press.

In addition, I am a writer of children’s literature, a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), and I am proud to participate weekly in the on-line group of fine illustrators at the “Picture Bookie Showcase”.