Michelle Palatnik is a New York-based figurative painter recognized for her deep commitment to the craft of portraiture. Her artistic path began with a four-year scholarship to New York University, awarded by Elizabeth Murray. During her time at NYU, she secured a first-place painting scholarship from the Martin Wong Foundation.

Trained under the guidance of experts including Ross Bleckner and Maureen Gallace, Michelle fine-tuned her skills and extended her education with Sharon Sprung at the Art Student's League. She later spent three years at the Grand Central Atelier, immersing herself in the classical methods of realism under Jacob Collins' mentorship.

Michelle's dedication has been recognized with awards such as the Richard C. Pionk Memorial Award at the Salmagundi Club, and she has earned the privilege to be a copyist at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This role facilitated a deep engagement with the works of masters, notably Rembrandt's Self Portrait. Michelle has showcased her work in various locations, from Manhattan and Long Island to an international audience in China at Poly International's first American Contemporary Art auction.

In 2014, Michelle took a significant step in her career, establishing her studio after seven years of academic and formal training. Besides creating artworks that resonate with many, Michelle has a rich history of mentorship. She served as a Portfolio Specialist at the Art League of Long Island and taught at institutions including the Nassau County Museum Of Art, Concordia College, and the Ramaz Upper School.

As a mentor, Michelle approaches teaching with an open and curious mind, encouraging students to explore art, history, and themselves freely. She is known for designing courses that cater to her students' needs, promoting deep thinking, close observation, and purposeful creation.