The Artist - Michelle Fleet

Michelle Fleet is a self-taught fiber artist from the Bronx, now based in Brooklyn. She founded Suri & Caya in 2016, inspired by her two-decade career as a dancer with the renowned Paul Taylor Dance Company. Her years in performance, global exploration, and collaborations with visionary artists continue to shape her distinct approach to fiber art.

Michelle finds strong parallels between dance and felting—both require structured improvisation, rhythm, and sensitivity to form. Felting, like movement, is a physical and meditative process: fibers intertwine gracefully, building structure and harmony. To her, each piece is its own choreography, igniting curiosity and passion.

From tapestries to sculptures, décor to accessories, raw fibers are transformed into captivating works of art through meticulous planning and spontaneous manipulation. Michelle prioritizes sustainable natural materials such as alpaca, sheep’s wool, yak, camel, and silk. Much of the alpaca fiber is sourced from her family’s ranch in Washington state, offering a range of natural textures and tones. At times, she incorporates vibrant colors to infuse her creations with energy and contrast.

Through this practice, Michelle captures the vitality of dance, the serene elegance of nature, and the rawness of the world. Her tactile works embody an authentic sense of exploration and dedication to the craft of felting. With Suri & Caya, she continues to evolve her artistic voice, creating pieces that reflect her community, her curiosity, and her commitment to the limitless possibilities of fiber art.