Michelle FavreaulT

 I am a multi-disciplinary artist and teacher. Creativity is at the heart of how I understand the world and make meaning through the joys and challenges of life. My current body of work weaves fiber, story and paint in textured pieces that explore the complexity and beauty of grief and gratitude. I believe in tiny poems, reframing photography as prayer and lavish affirmations to inspire the beautiful unfolding of soul. In the studio, I dedicate my time to integrating creativity as a spiritual practice for individual expression and community healing. I strive to cultivate curiosity and engage the arts to interpret life’s most challenging experiences. Guided by traditional and reimagined ritual, with grounding in mindfulness and imperfection, I offer programs that honor the inherent spark of creativity in each person.

 

Fun facts:  I’ve lived in a castle. I was named before the Beatles song…and I have come to expect that someone will sing to me everyday.  I’ve taught seat belt safety and eschatology and took my first weaving class five years ago. INFP, Enneagram 4…maybe. Libra with a Scorpio moon.  I’m a lemon lover.

Once upon a time, having lived in a castle, I wore a tiara to work. And a boa. More than once.

These days, I work with folks who have a creative spark that needs tending.  Sometimes that means supporting someone who wants to be “listened into speech” or challenged to finally write that story down.  I help folks remember what they’ve forgotten: their gifts, their passions, their heart’s calling. I work with spiritual seekers, humanists and healers. One day I may be designing a social emotional arts curriculum or leading a workshop, then asking questions to interpret a dream, or maybe I’ll be on Zoom with someone to read tarot when a question is clear but an answer is not…I spend time in my studio, making art about the tough and tender stuff of life – side by side with others as a coach. In partnership with folks of all ages, I create and guide rituals when life begins, or ends, or some important shift is happening for an individual or a community. After walking with my chihuahuas and updating their instagram, I’m happy to have yarn in my hands, weaving hope and exploring shapes and colors and textures. Family keeps me grounded. Painting and poetry help my brain and soothe my spirit.

My training includes a master’s of arts degree that centered on leadership in value-oriented organizations and a master of divinity degree with specialized training in ritual, spiritual care and healing after harm. I’m a creative facilitator of the Jewish Studio Process and completed a certificate in Social Emotional Arts from the UCLArts and Healing program. Recent projects include collaboration with the REmagine End of Life Festival and the Institute for Collective Trauma and Growth. In two decades of teaching, advising and mentoring graduate students, I have supported social change agents and progressive community leaders.

 

TESTIMONIALS

 

Denise

I knew she was clearly on my team and has my back on any creative endeavor I set out to reach – the extra oomph any one of us needs to believe.….I thank the universe for Michelle’s gift. Progressively, the dream realizes. And I see: it is possible.

Michele, SF Bay Area

Michelle asks powerful questions that move me beyond my “stuff” and into a place of creative possibility.

Sara, Boston

THANK YOU seems so small for gift you’ve given over these months. This practice saved me this year, gave me something of beauty & hope when many days I felt none. It is not often we who serve are so deeply served, but you helped feed my soul & heart. So though it is only two small words…thank you!

Catherine, Hawaii

Wonderful things unfold under your care. I feel like a happy plant stretching into your bright sunshine and torrential rain all at once. Thank you.