Michelle “Meesh” Flowers
she/her/zir
Hendersonville, NC, USA
Michelle Flowers (aka Meesh The Great) is a Creative Alchemist and Healing Artist whose work fuses the ancient practice of Reiki with raw materials to create vibrant, energetic, and whimsical adornments. Inspired by her own journey of healing and self-discovery, Meesh infuses each piece with deep, transformative energy.
As a New Thought Leader and Mystical Arts Sorceress, Meesh's work is a reflection of her personal experiences and a testament to the power of healing. Her creations are not merely jewelry but portals to self-awareness and inner peace.
Meesh's commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in her advocacy for the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. Her compassionate approach and extensive knowledge of the healing arts allow her to create unique and personalized experiences for every client.
“My adornments are a reflection of my wandering spirit, a visual exploration of my inner world. Drawn to bright colors and shiny things since childhood, I create pieces that are both whimsical and evocative. Each piece is a journey through my imagination, a reflection of my dreams and desires.
I invite you to embark on this exploration with me. Wear my creations and feel the energy they exude. Let them inspire your own imagination and spark a sense of wonder.”
“Tribe Love”, Egyptian crystal, copper, lapis, silver, wood, plastic and paper beads, 2” x .5” pendant, 20” necklace, 2023How does your work relate to the theme connection?
“I found healing in the mountains of North Carolina. This transition was prompted by the loss of my mother and the need to reconnect with myself after a tumultuous period.
Prior to my move, I had been living in Charlotte, NC, where I was actively involved in the local arts, queer, and Black communities. However, a series of challenges, including a breakup, loss of close friends and community, 3 car accidents, housing instability and job loss, forced me to pause and reassess my life.
I’m still finding what ‘home’ means to me and am in a regenerative space. During this time which feels foreign, I have found solace in nature and exploring creativity through deepening my jewelry-making practice with Reiki. The pieces I created reflect my personal journey and the connections I've made along the way.
Tribe Love was born out of my grief and navigating the unknown.
Bird’s the Word Inspired by my former partner's nickname, this piece symbolizes moving forward and embracing new beginnings. Ohana Love represents grounding and the enduring bond with my mother.
Through these creations, I've found an alternate route to process my experience in propagating my roots and reclaiming myself. My work is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of connection, even in the face of adversity."
“Bird’s The Word”, Cabbage Patch plastic doll, citrine, gold plated brass, aluminum wire, 1.5” x 1” x .75”, 18” necklace, 2024What role does connection play in your creative process?
“Inspiration sometimes comes in the form of uncomfortable transitions that force us to make moves we weren’t expecting or anticipating. This body of work was born through lived experiences from the moves I’ve made and the different people I interacted with during my transition. This led me to a self-reflective journey with jewelry. Through these creations I was able to express myself in a way that words could not.
Each piece acts as a journal, and meditation as I worked through my inner muck. What you see is the transmutation of the emotions I faced while being.
It is a reminder that in moments of adversity, we are never truly alone; the threads of our relationships weave a tapestry of support and understanding, guiding us through the darkest times. My journey reflects this truth, illustrating that healing is not a solitary path but a collective experience, rooted in the bonds we cherish. The grief I’ve experienced is evidence that I have lived and loved."
What connection(s) does your queerness make to the world around you?
“As a Queer Black woman and free-spirited Creative, I've always felt a deep sense of otherness. Growing up, my desires diverged from those of my family and peers. My parents, while adventurous and supportive, struggled to understand my sensitivity and unconventional thinking.
My journey toward self-discovery began with therapy, where I learned about codependency. My early attraction to women, though confusing, was a significant step. Despite societal expectations and my family's discomfort, I boldly pursued my desires.
During the 2020 lockdown, I met Bird, a woman who became my muse and first partner. Our connection was profound, and I found the courage to share my feelings with my parents. Their initial reaction was less than enthusiastic, but I pressed forward.
Our relationship, though ultimately challenged by insecurities, was transformative. It helped me discover my core and embrace my queer identity. Through this experience, I learned the power of loving freely and boldly. My connection with Bird inspired a great deal of my work in the past four years, as I continue to advocate for visibility and acceptance."
“Ohana Love”, sterling silver, carved labradorite crystal, 18” stainless steel chain, 1.25” x .75” x .25”, 2024Anything else you would like to share about this work? This can be an important part of the process, sourcing materials, or research.
“Ohana Love
Handmade using made pendants
Sterling Silver Turtle Flower shaped pendant with carved labradorite crystal.
Materials from Torched Asheville and Cousin gifted chain from Newport Rhode Island.
Tribe Love
Colorful heart shield made of Egyptian Crystal, copper, lapis and silver spiral, wooden, plastic and paper beads.
Materials from Asheville, Cary tango friend, Durham bead show, Charlotte bead stores.
Bird’s The Word.
Cabbage Patch pendant.
Materials, brother gifted cabbage patch, citrine from curated crystal dig I put on in 2021."