Michelle S. Drummond was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica in 1976 to young parents who at the time were in their prime of figuring out who they were and what they wanted out of life. At an early age, her humble upbringing influenced her pursuits in life. That drive led her to focus on academia and playing field hockey in Jamaica, which carved the path to where she is today.

She came to the United States in 1995 as an international student to pursue her education at St. Lawrence University in Upstate, New York. A former member of the Jamaica Women’s Hockey Team, Michelle has represented Jamaica in various events internationally, since the age of fifteen (15). As a matter of fact, she was the first Jamaican national to have been offered an academic scholarship to study at the St. Lawrence University and simultaneously represent the University through field hockey.

Although technically inclined and pursing a degree in Mathematics, Computer Science and French, Michelle relented to her creative side and in her senior year at St. Lawrence experimented with mixed media. She realized then that manipulating multicolored fiber and incorporating acrylic paint on canvas was an avenue to help her navigate and cope in unfamiliar environments. She later pursued post graduate education and a career in Project Management in the private and federal arenas while simultaneously creating art.

Fast forward 23 years, Michelle is a self-taught contemporary mixed media fiber artist who works professionally in the creative arena. Her artwork exudes the true expression of her quest for life and the undeniable influence of her rich Jamaican culture, her experiences living here in the United States and exploration of other cultures through her travels. Each piece is a manifestation of experiences that were once suppressed or embraced and transcends the precincts of culture, religion, gender and ethnicity.

Michelle’s work has evolved over the years from 2-dimensional to 3-dimensional forms on and off the canvas and wood panel. This correlates to her risk-taking tenacity and fearlessness to accept challenges that push the boundaries of her artistry while remaining authentic to her dexterity

Although whimsical in nature, Michelle’s work usually carries and underlying message of optimism, strength and perseverance.