Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Rankin.
Hi Michelle, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m a native Texan who has called Austin home since high school. I studied Computer Science at UT Austin at my father’s urging and spent many years working in the tech industry. Making things and creating has always been part of who I am—first as a hobby, then as a quiet, steady thread through my life. I’ve long been drawn to handmade and vintage objects with character and history, and in my 40s I began spending more time at local art markets, where the energy and community of artists inspired me.
By my 50s, corporate burnout pushed me to seek more meaningful work. I left my job, began volunteering with local nonprofits and making art. What started as pieces for family and friends grew over time: I began showing in group exhibits, participating in markets, and connecting with the vibrant local scene. My practice is informed by a love of craft, storytelling, and family/community—creating work that feels both personal and rooted in the handmade traditions I admire.
My business name, Maltochello, is a made-up word created from letters in my family members’ names. My family is my greatest source of inspiration, support, and love, and they are truly at the heart of everything I do. Because of that, it felt important to include my husband, children, and grandchildren in the name of my business.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
If you’re going to be an artist or artisan, you truly have to love what you do, because creative entrepreneurship comes with many challenges. One of the biggest is financial. Starting a business from scratch involves upfront costs, and it takes time to discover which sales channels work best and who your audience really is.
In the beginning, you are also doing everything yourself—marketing, accounting, social media, applying to shows, managing inventory, finding suppliers, as well as creating. That can feel overwhelming. The good news is that the artist community is often incredibly warm and supportive. Many artists are willing to share advice about what has and hasn’t worked for them, as long as you are respectful of their time and boundaries.
Some challenges are simply out of your control. For example, outdoor markets are heavily affected by weather, which can impact both costs and sales. At the same time, you’re juggling the creative side of the business. As a newer artist, you’re still developing your voice and style. Putting your work out into the world is deeply vulnerable—you open yourself up to criticism, rejection, and comparison. There will always be people who don’t connect with your work or who feel it’s overpriced, especially in a world where mass-produced and AI-generated art is widely available and inexpensive.
It can definitely be a roller coaster, but for me, it’s worth it. There is nothing like the feeling when someone connects with my art and chooses to bring it into their home or business. My ultimate goal is to create work that brings people joy, and that is incredibly rewarding.
Finally, one of my biggest ongoing challenges is time. My original work is entirely handmade, and each piece requires a significant investment of time. I’m constantly balancing new creative ideas with the demands of running a business and the realities of everyday life. Learning how to manage that balance is an ongoing process—but it’s one I’m grateful to be navigating.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My passion is creating art that brings a little more joy, kindness, and love into the world. Inspired by my Texas roots, my family, and a lifelong affection for quilts, folk art, and well-loved objects, my work celebrates pieces that carry history and meaning, while adding a sense of whimsy. Guided by curiosity, I create brightly colored, mixed-media works that feel playful and welcoming.
I believe there is something beautiful about art—like people—that is one of a kind and has a story to tell. All of my mixed-media artworks are handmade by me in my home studio. Each piece blends paint, marker, fabric, ribbons, hand-sewn embroidery, and other found objects. Whenever possible, I use upcycled and vintage materials, and I make a point to support small and local businesses for my supplies.
One of the most distinctive aspects of my work is that I hand-sew embroidery directly through the canvas of each piece. This is a time-intensive process: small works can take 8–10 hours, while larger pieces may take up to 40 hours. Embroidering is also my favorite part of the process—it is calming and meditative, and it adds a subtle texture and depth that I love.
What matters most to you? Why?
I believe every person is worthy of dignity, love, and belonging. I hold hope for a world where people feel safe, supported, and free to flourish as their authentic selves. The world feels especially heavy right now, and we are constantly met with difficult and heartbreaking news. There is real cruelty and division, and it’s important not to turn away from that truth. And also, there is so much goodness. Every day, people, organizations, and communities are showing up with care, generosity, and courage. I see that every day in my work with local non-profit organizations. I believe there is something quietly powerful—almost radical—about choosing kindness and intentionally seeking hope and joy, because they truly do exist, even in hard times.
As Mister Rogers said, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” I would add: whenever you can, be one of them. That spirit of compassion, gentleness, and hope is what I strive to reflect in my art.
Pricing:
- Orignal Mixed Media Art: $80-$600
- Fine Art Paper Prints: $25-$75
- Framed Mini Prints: $15
Contact Info:
- Website: https://maltochello.etsy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maltochello/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maltochello
- Other: https://linktr.ee/maltochello
