Michelle Watson is a contemporary figurative painter based in Suffolk, UK, known for her evocative and thought-provoking exploration of the modern female experience. Her work draws inspiration from classical figuration, which she reimagines with contemporary painting methods to create pieces that are both timeless and deeply relevant. 

Central to Michelle’s practice is a commitment to amplifying women’s voices and shedding light on themes of identity, femininity, and societal perceptions of aging and beauty. Through her work, she invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of womanhood, often blending rich symbolism and abstraction to tell personal yet universally resonant stories.

She’s held solo exhibitions and has exhibited extensively with many societies and organisations, and features in private collections both in the UK and abroad. Michelle reached the final of the Art Gemini prize 2023 and has been pre-selected for the Columbia Threadneedle prize and the women in Art prize. Awarded the Stride Cup and two-time winner of the Juliet Pannet award presented by Philip Jackson.

Michelle was featured alongside three other women, in Suffolk Magazine, in celebration of International Women’s Day. Other features include Artist Talk and Outside Left magazine. Michelle had a live interview with Flux TV [showing on YouTube] and has also been featured in the Flux Review magazines.