“Road Tripping” mixed media paintings by Jill Carey Michaels are inspired by the uniquely American experience of driving coast to coast on the interstate as billboards, truckstops and skylines rush past the car window. Ms. Michaels integrates images of retro sheik women into her panoramic roadscapes, layering colorful paint strokes with iconic symbols, words and found objects, creating an intriguing world.

After receiving a BFA in Illustration from University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Michaels earned her MFA in Computer Art from The School of Visual Arts in NYC and later worked on NBC’s Olympic website in the Computer Graphics department. Her multimedia
background inspires her to juxtapose digital techniques with the discipline of traditional painting.

Originally from Philadelphia, Jill thrived in the art, music and poetry scenes in New York and Los Angeles, eventually moving to Joshua Tree this year. Whether writing and illustrating humorous books such as “Debutante without a Dress” or “No Customer Service,” or broadcasting her unique radioshow, "Desert Storysongs" on Joshua Tree's Z107.7, Michaels documents everyday life with wit and humor.

A former New York University English and Art professor, she currently teaches at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online while living and working in the high desert. Michaels resume includes exhibiting at The Museum of American Folk Art, CANO, Nordstrom’s and JTAG Gallery in Joshua Tree. She is represented by Simeon Den Galley in Cathedral City, Ca. On May 13th, her solo art show opens with a special musical performance by the artist.