Michelle Rotert, a Chicago-based artist, has carved her niche in the art world with a distinctive style that marries color, nature, and personal experience. Hailing from Clinton, Missouri, Rotert’s journey as an artist began at the University of Central Missouri, where she pursued a degree in commercial art. Her evolution from a graphic designer in Kansas City to a prominent painter in Chicago speaks volumes about the transformative power of artistic expression.
Rotert’s medium of choice is acrylic paint on canvas, a versatile combination that allows her to convey the vivid emotions and nuanced experiences that fuel her creativity. Her artistic philosophy centers around the belief that color is deeply personal. It’s not just a visual element but a narrative, an expression of the world around her. Nature, with its myriad hues, serves as a constant muse for Rotert. She finds inspiration in the subtle play of light and shadow, capturing moments like the sun’s evening slant illuminating trees or the horizon, which, in turn, find their way onto her canvas.
The artist’s subjects are as diverse as her influences, spanning nature, human behavior, and her own experiences. This trinity of themes weaves through her body of work, creating a rich tapestry that mirrors the intricacies of life itself. Rotert’s approach is rooted in observation, capturing the essence of fleeting moments and transforming them into timeless pieces of art.
One of Rotert’s works, titled ‘Rowing,’ epitomizes her evocative style. Executed in acrylic on a 20h x 30w canvas, this painting is a visual journey into solitude and deep contemplation. The color palette, a key element in Rotert’s work, is inspired by the emerald green hues witnessed in Lake Michigan during the morning sunlight. It’s a deliberate choice, a bridge between the natural world and the canvas, allowing viewers to connect with the essence of the scene on a personal level.
The connection between Rotert’s experiences and her art is palpable. Her work becomes a visual diary, documenting the nuances of her journey from the Midwest to the vibrant city of Chicago. The transition from graphic design to fine art reflects not just a change in profession but a profound shift in perspective. It’s a testament to her commitment to authenticity and the pursuit of a more meaningful mode of expression.
As a Chicago-based artist, Rotert is inevitably influenced by the urban environment, but her roots in Missouri continue to echo in her work. There’s a blend of city life and nature, creating a harmonious fusion that resonates with a wide audience. It’s a delicate dance between the man-made and the organic, mirroring the complexity of the human experience.
Rotert’s dedication to acrylic paint as her chosen medium is a deliberate choice. It’s a medium that allows her to express herself with immediacy, capturing the essence of a moment in vibrant, unapologetic strokes. The tactile nature of acrylics adds a visceral quality to her work, inviting viewers to not just see but feel the emotions conveyed on the canvas.
In conclusion, Michelle Rotert stands as a unique voice in the contemporary art scene, her work a testament to the power of simplicity and the profound impact of personal experiences. From the emerald greens of Lake Michigan to the quiet contemplation in ‘Rowing,’ each piece is a chapter in the artist’s ongoing narrative. Rotert invites viewers to not just observe but immerse themselves in the stories she weaves on canvas—a journey through color, nature, and the intricacies of human existence.
