Michelle Bien is a lifelong Michigan artist.   While earning her degree in Multidisciplinary Fine Art and Design at the University of Michigan, she self-published a book featuring a year in her life in the form of pen-and-ink cartoons. She has worked as a community arts and programs assistant for arts nonprofits, tea sommelier and creative designer for a fine tea store, assistant research photographer, remodeling project manager, and as a freelance graphic designer and illustrator. Her art has been exhibited throughout Michigan and has received national recognition. In addition to creating art, teaching, traveling, and writing, Michelle also leads two local discussion groups: The French Group of Traverse City and Artists of Northwest Michigan.