Michele Guttenberg “Self Portrait” oil on canvas, 16” W x 20” H, 2024 $150.00

I discovered art when I was in my mid twenties.  My brother had started drawing pictures of rock stars.  They were very good.  I guess when I saw what he could do I tried it too.   He gave me many tips.  I realized I was good at it too.  It literally saved my life.  Before I discovered I had a talent I wanted to have something I was really good at something.  Then art came along.  I was hooked.  I drew all the time.  I drew faces.  I love the face.  I see great faces on people all the time.
For years I drew.  Then I met someone else whose art I enjoyed.  My cousin  Alice Perline.  She painted in watercolor.  She told me so many things about watercolor.  I started using acrylic but then I started using oil. 
It was amazing.  I love oil paint an what it can do.
The self portrait has always been a favorite of mine.  When I can’t think of anything to paint I do a self portraits.  I have done many.
I feel I have come a long way as an artist.  Not in terms of financial success but from my own personal journey.  I paint everyday. I feel I must teach now and I enjoy that very much.