Creating Freedom Rocks

About the Book

The hand print in the last page of this book was the foundation of “I Am Essential” shirts that were used years later for the Essential Art Musicians and Friends fundraiser. Michelle organized it to benefit the Harry Chapin Food Bank after organizing a food and fund drive for St Matthew’s House a week before Thanksgiving when she learned there were no turkeys or side dishes yet for about 1000 families that were expected for dinner. Thanks to the loving actions of her friends in the Little Black Dress Club, there was plenty of food served that Thanksgiving. Since 2000, Michelle has been painting “The Prints of Freedom” by turning people’s hands into art that embodies who a person is and what they do to celebrate freedom.

About the Author

Michelle Finnegan’s writing ability and her artistic ability are readily apparent in her work—simply read what she writes and look at what she paints and you know about those. But it is when you find out what she channels these talents into that you know the person she is. She is intelligent, talented, well-educated, charming, funny and delightful…but she is also caring, compassionate and committed. I spent 28 years in publishing, and during most of that time I was a signer of authors. I know a good project when I see it, and a talented person when I meet one. My other career, college teaching (MIT’s Sloan School and Harvard’s JFK School of Government) is also one in which an ability to gauge talent is cultivated. I can recommend Michelle or her work to you without reservation, in the sure knowledge that she will be an asset to any creative enterprise.” Terence Heagney