Michele Stone
Michele Renee Stone is a dynamic artist, curator, and creative entrepreneur who has dedicated over two decades to the arts and cultural space. As the CEO of Michele Stone Masterpieces, she combines her lifelong passion for visual art with a mission to inspire and empower others to embrace their own creativity. Her work spans mixed media, painting, and therapeutic art, reflecting a style that blends realism, impressionism, and imaginative expression. Beyond her studio practice, Michele is deeply committed to helping others experience the transformative power of art in their own lives.
Throughout her career, Michele has built a multifaceted professional path that includes roles as a gallery manager, curator, instructor, and coach. She has overseen major exhibition spaces, curated award-winning artists, and led community-centered art programming, all while continuing to develop her own artistic voice. Her transition into coaching marked a pivotal expansion of her impact, as she began guiding emerging artists in both the creative and business aspects of their careers—offering support in areas such as marketing, gallery placement, and overcoming creative blocks. Her leadership extends into collaborative initiatives like her Creative Accountability Group, where artists come together to build consistency and momentum in their practice.
Driven by a philosophy rooted in authenticity, connection, and sustainable growth, Michele approaches art as both a personal and collective journey. She recently launched her podcast, Artist Bridge to Abundance, where she shares insights, stories, and strategies to help artists build thriving, purpose-driven careers. In addition to her professional work, Michele is actively involved in community and nonprofit efforts, using art as a vehicle for healing and empowerment. Her career reflects a unique blend of creative talent, entrepreneurial vision, and a deep commitment to helping others unlock their potential through art.
• Certified Therapeutic Art Coach
• CPR Certification
• Tampa College
• Hillsborough College
• Columbus College of Art & Design
• Employee of the Month
• 3rd place in the Chalk Walk Art Show
• Black Art Matters (President)
• Gulfport Merchant Chambers (Steering Committee)
• Suntan Arts Center (Board Member)
• Orphanage organization in Arusha
• Tanzania (Board Member)
• Sun Coast Kids Place
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, dedication, and leaning into opportunities that present themselves. Authenticity is really important to me because I believe that when you are authentic, people really resonate with that and they trust you, believe in you, and follow through. I also think it's crucial to do what you say you're going to do and put your best foot forward. I try to do things with a pure intention because people can feel into that. When you're authentic and congruent inside your body, it aligns you with everything else that is for you.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've received is to keep going. There was one time I was on an airplane talking to a woman, and she told me to be an opportunist and put myself out there. I really subscribe to the idea that if you figure out the reason that you're here, the passion that you have, the yearning you have inside, and you do that as a job, you'll never work a day in your life. That's why I'm in the arts, because it feeds my soul. I've also learned not to be afraid of opportunities that present themselves, because the universe has a way of putting things in front of you. Of course, we all get to say yes, no, or be indifferent, but if there are opportunities being placed in front of you, say yes, because you never know where they're going to lead you.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering the arts to look for mentors. As artists, when we're stepping into something, there's a lot of uncertainty, and there's a tendency for people to be vulnerable because artists are creating something from inside. When they get to that point where they're putting it out into the world, it's a vulnerable state. I've had many women look at my title as curator and almost be intimidated by bringing me their art. So I'd say follow up on every hunch, on every lead, on everything that even catches your eye, and just go full out. And remember that FEAR stands for Face Everything and Rise. Don't let fear hold you back from pursuing opportunities or reaching out to people who might seem intimidating.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The challenges I'm having right now are broadening my horizons, because I live in such an art-based community with an influx of artists here. I'm putting my name out there, and one of the reasons I started my podcast is to really shape my message. I don't really subscribe to the idea that there's so much noise out there, because I know that people who are congruent with my message will receive it. But I do think being more visible and putting myself out there even more is probably one of my bigger challenges right now. I'm also trying to find my way in this whole world of marketing and AI and everything else that's happening all at once.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
For me, authenticity is probably my number one value. I feel like if you're as authentic as you can possibly be and being congruent inside your body, then it aligns you with everything else that is for you. I'm also known as a bridge, which is why I call my podcast The Artist Bridge to Abundance and also what I call my program. I intuitively have this knack to bridge different people or different situations together, and that helps advance their careers. This ability to connect people and opportunities is something I really value in my work.