Michelle Hinebrook
Director/Instructor AEA
At AEA, you will work directly with Professional Artist and Graduate Pratt Institute Professor Michelle Hinebrook, who brings over 25 years of teaching experience and has exhibited her work internationally.
Michelle offers mentorship that goes beyond the studio—drawing on her deep knowledge of the NYC art world and her extensive experience reviewing portfolios for colleges and specialized high school programs.
Hi, I’m Michelle!
I am the Lead Instructor and Director at Artful Edge Academy (AEA). I began AEA with the encouragement of friends and my community, who I first helped with portfolio development and school applications. I loved the experience, and I knew that I wanted to help more artists- to strategically build a body of work that is both technically and conceptually strong for school applications. More about me:
Teaching and Painting are My Two Superpowers
I am a Graduate Pratt Institute Professor and a visiting instructor at Urban Glass. I have been a resident artist at XO Projects in Brooklyn, NY for 18 years, where our classes take place.
My approach to teaching art is rooted in creative curiosity, experimentation, acceptance, and self-expression. I believe in art as a powerful tool for self-expression, communication, and healing.
My teaching practice enriches my studio practice, and I see teaching as a way of learning more about creativity and the world through art. I am passionate about creative expression, and it’s so fulfilling to help students discover their talents and artistic voice. I am both a dedicated educator and professional painter, and I believe these two practices constantly enrich each other. Teaching fuels my curiosity and deepens my understanding of creativity and the world through art.
Education and Art Practice
I received my Master of Fine Arts degree from the Cranbrook Academy of Art and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Art & Design from the College for Creative Studies.
I maintain a dedicated studio practice and am actively pursuing my career as both a painter and educator. I frequently travel to speak and critique as a visiting artist at art institutions. My material explorations as an artist-educator span various mediums, including painting, drawing, sculpture, graphic design, fashion, textile design, glass art, illustration, and digital art.
Portfolio Advising
I serve on portfolio review committees for top art and design colleges, which has given me a unique understanding of college applications and what jurors are looking for in portfolio work.
I have taught portfolio development and professional practices courses at the College for Creative Studies and The College Art Association
I have several years of experience in administration, academic advising, and admissions at Pratt Institute and the College for Creative Studies. Each year,