Noel J. Mickelson was an outstanding talented contemporary artist, who worked with a variety of materials and was actively engaged in environmental issues.
Including nature in her materials and works, she stepped up as a nature lover and engaged the young generation to think about environmental effects of their productions.
Its main characters are Shannon and K. C. Amos, who embodies her creative and advocacy worldview.
As a talented organizer of beauty and social justice, Noel J. Mickelson encourages artists to address compelling issues to ensure change in the art world.
Early Life and Background
Noel J. Mickelson grew up and spent her childhood in Jackson County, Minnesota, the natural environment of which influenced her.
Born in a family where artistic and natural values were appreciated and encouraged, she developed those interests, herself.
This environment fostered her creativity and encouraged her to work with various art forms.
Leaving aside the primary focus on art education, Mickelson’s early years were greatly tied with the environment and it played a major role into her work eventually.
Education and Artistic Development
Noel J.Mickelson pursued her academics at Colorado State University with an architecture and environmental design that came in handy when aligning her artwork.
It helped her to explore the relationship between art and nature which led her to develop early aesthetic projects demonstrating her environmental concern.
These influential factors led Gen Mickelson to develop her own unique colourful style from ideas found as well as engaging with to the natural environment of Fort Collins where she operated from.
It was also there that Um habituated to meet John Amos a key tenant in her lifetime transformation.
Marriage to John Amos
Image Credit : anonib.blogJohn Amos and Noel J. Mickelson got married on December, 27, 1965, apparently after knowing each other at Colorado State University.
They had gotten involved in this period when the approval of the blacks and whites marriages was still a dream in most of the states in America.
Blasphemy against the societal values and the prejudices of that age, they created this life for themselves, and as social workers in New Jersey.
Mickelson supported Amos in pursuing the performing art passions, appreciating his reluctance to take a regular 9 am to 5 pm job.
They had problems in marriage, which led to their divorce in 1975, the same as other marriages of interracial couples of that period.
Artistic Career
Noel J Mickelson was an all round artist in all categories including paintings, sculptors and architects.
This allowed her to combine concerns with the environment with her work since she was inspired by the bond between a woman and nature.
Some of them are architectural designs that were normally environmental conservation compliant and sculptures that were inclined towards organism shapes.
During her work Mickelson was involved in many exhibits that represented her skills and passion about the topic of art and environment and the need to address this issue.
Her ability to work with different operation fields not only distinguished her work but was also remarkable enough to leave a dying imprint on artists of the future, who wanted to explore further about the link between invention and reserve.
Environmental Advocacy
Noel J. Mickelson focused on sustainability and environmental concerns, utilizing her art to raise ecological awareness.
She participated in numerous initiatives, including community art projects highlighting the link between art and nature.
Her architectural designs frequently embraced sustainable practices, demonstrating her belief that art must be visually appealing and environmentally considerate.
Equestrian Passion
Noel J. Mickelson’s profound affection for horses and equestrianism significantly shaped her art and lifestyle.
This enthusiasm led her to integrate equestrian subjects into her paintings and sculptures, honoring the elegance and beauty of these creatures.
Her devotion to horseback riding exhibited her dedication to an active lifestyle and a deep connection with nature.
This relationship not only enhanced her creative expression but also highlighted her belief in the significance of environmental stewardship.
Impact on Family
Noel J. Mickelson’s impact on her children, Shannon and K. C. Amos is evident in their artistic and philanthropic activities.
Shannon promotes mental health awareness through her art, while K. C. , a filmmaker, includes themes of environmentalism and social justice in his projects.
Both siblings pay homage to their mother’s legacy by fostering creativity and community involvement, ensuring her activism inspires future generations.
Social Change Advocate
Noel J. Mickelson notably challenged societal norms through her marriage to John Amos, especially at a time when interracial relationships faced significant obstacles.
Their union in 1965, shortly before the Supreme Court legalized interracial marriage, was a strong statement against existing prejudices.
Despite encountering societal racism and personal challenges, their relationship aided in altering perceptions, showing that love crosses racial lines.
Mickelson’s activism further strengthened this message as she utilized her art and voice to promote equality, aiding the gradual acceptance of interracial relationships in society.
Recognition and Awards
Noel J. Mickelson was acknowledged for her work in art and activism during her career, although specific awards are not well recorded.
Her legacy, recognized posthumously, continues to motivate conversations on environmental sustainability and artistic expression.
Despite lacking mainstream recognition while alive, her impact persists through her children, Shannon and K. C. Amos, and her pioneering role in merging art with activism, keeping her contributions relevant today.
Noel J. Mickelson’s life and work demonstrate the significant role art plays in promoting social change and environmental awareness.
Noel J. Mickelson died in 2016 at approximately age 72. She faced significant health challenges, including blindness and quadriplegia, prior to her passing. Her life and work continue to be remembered for their impact on art, environmental advocacy, and social justice.