From Detroit grit to Chelsea glam: Michele Zalopany's artistic odyssey keeps blossoming | amNewYork
Briefly

Michele Zalopany, currently an artist in residence at the Hotel Chelsea, has a vibrant yet tumultuous background stemming from her childhood in Detroit. Born to a Hawaiian father and a Polish-American mother, she experienced significant social upheaval, including the 1967 Detroit riots. Despite being thrown out at 17, she nurtured her passion for art, which later flourished after moving to New York City. Her artistic transformation led her from a focus on sculpture to painting, reflecting her resilience and dedication within the dynamic NY arts scene.
Zalopany reflects on her harrowing childhood experiences in Detroit during a time of social upheaval, marking pivotal moments that shaped her identity as an artist.
Despite dropping out of college out of boredom, Zalopany's passion for art remained strong, leading her to the Cleveland Institute of Art.
Her artistic journey reflects resilience and adaptation as she transitioned from sculpture to painting while immersing herself in New York City's dynamic arts scene.
Zalopany emphasizes her dedication to her craft, stating, 'I don't answer the phone when I'm working; I hate being interrupted.'
Read at www.amny.com
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