Artist, gallerist, and creative leader Michelle Brandt joins Victoria to share her journey from art educator to gallery director and founder of Pecha Projects, a project space dedicated to counter narratives in contemporary art. Michelle reflects on staying “obedient to her gifts,” navigating a life-threatening illness, and learning to prioritize presence over perfection in both her work and life. She and Victoria discuss alignment, rejection as redirection, and the power of championing artists whose stories and practices feel deeply meaningful and alive.

Here’s what we discuss:

• Discovering her true role as a connector and storyteller between artists and collectors.
• Opening Brandt Gallery, launching Pecha Projects, and building platforms for social narrative and underrepresented voices.
• Reframing rejection as redirection, asking for what you want, and approaching galleries with intention and professionalism.
• Letting go of “perfect balance,” embracing trade-offs, and using meditation, mornings, and self-care to stay grounded and present.

About Michelle –

Michelle Brandt is the owner and director of Brandt Gallery in Columbus, Ohio, and the founder of Pecha Projects, a project space and initiative centered on counter narratives and contemporary art. With a background in art education and years of experience working in galleries, Michelle has built a practice around championing artists, connecting people, and sharing stories that make us think differently. Through her gallery, project space, and mentoring, she supports artists in cultivating meaningful, sustainable careers.