Michiyo Kirkpatrick

About:

Michiyo Kirkpatrick holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Art. An MFA is a terminal degree in the studio arts. Michiyo received a full scholarship in Japan and was awarded a talent scholarship in higher education in the United States. She is a lifetime member of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi.

Growing up in the ancient capitals of Nara, Kyoto and Osaka regions in Japan, Michiyo had opportunities to appreciate numerous historic and artistic national treasures. Michiyo’s grandfather, a traditional Japanese artist who used Sumi ink and painting brushes made in Nara, was commissioned to create paintings for temples in Japan. Naturally, her favorite media became Sumi and she grew into a practitioner of Japanese Calligraphy (Shodo) and received a number of prizes.

In the U.S., Michiyo created numerous artworks for local clients, and was awarded by the national and international art competitions as well. Her works include: the large-scale paintings exhibited in the San Diego International Airport, the handmade artist's books exhibited in the Balboa Park Japanese Friendship Garden, and the Washi paper artwork exhibited in New York to name a few. 

Michiyo Kirkpatrick, MFA, in fine arts and graphic design background, has provided instructions for the local colleges since 2000: San Diego State University, Grossmont college, Cuyamaca college, Palomar college and Southwestern college. In 2018, she served as an art contest judge for the Senior Art Contest held by the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation Department. Presently, she is teaching at the San Diego Community College District in the Emeritus program, authentic Sumi-e Japanese painting.

In her spare time, Michiyo helps to save shelter cats and kittens. She provides care at her home for the rescued and special needs cats.