m i c h e l l e g a r d e l l a

Professional Statement

In a time when the lines between people and technology blur more each day, I remain unapologetically tethered to human connection.

Growing up in New England in a family of immigrants, I was raised by laborers whose hands were always dirty from long days of honest work. Summers were spent alongside my grandmother in her garden, pulling carrots, planting peas, and digging for earthworm bait. On our walks to the fishing hole, I followed close in my too-big galoshes, counting magnolia trees as mile markers. Their work ethic and appreciation for the little things in life fuel my drive and my unwavering commitment to meaningful work.

At the core of everything I create is a simple yet profound truth transcending time: we all seek love, belonging, and purpose.

As a top-level creative executive for over two decades, I’ve built a reputation as an evocative storyteller who fosters authentic loyalty. After being named one of the “Top 30 Photographers in the World” by Photographer Magazine and achieving early career success, I leaned in even further—offering full-scale creative strategy at the highest level to both Fortune 100 companies. My early experience as a top-tier photographer, copywriter, and media designer led me to a Creative Director career I am proud of.

I am currently creating pottery in my backyard garden studio. My job in this lifetime is to unapologetically love the people, places, and things that are often overlooked and underappreciated. My art is my way of reminding others to try and do the same. It’s how I write when I cannot find the words. It’s how I process grief when I cannot find the hand I once reached for. It’s how I fight to preserve the simple things when it feels impossible.

I aim to create a legacy that is comforting and love-filled. Nostalgic and timeless. Thoughtful and deeply human.

Published Books

Floret Farm's Cut Flower Garden: Garden Journal (Chronicle Books.)

The Handcrafted Wedding (Sellers Publishing Inc.)

The Inspired Wedding (Sellers Publishing, Inc.)

Catch and Release (Self)

River Story (Limited Edition, Self)

Gallery Exhibitions and Awards

City of Austin Cultural Arts Division 15th annual People’s Gallery Exhibition 2019

Community Archive Project, 2024

Main Gallery Exhibition, 2023

FotoFest, Houston TX

ClickAway Gallery Show, San Antonio, TX

Robert’s Gallery, Cambridge MA

Harris Gallery, Miami FL

Joseloff Gallery, Hartford CT

ArtSpace Gallery, Hartford CT and NYC

Art for AIDS Exhibition, CT and NYC