Christopher Michel is the inaugural Artist-in-Residence at the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine. His appointment is focused on leveraging visual storytelling to elevate the work of scientists, engineers and medical professionals in society. Chris has spent many years working with the National Academies on science communications. He has been a member of the President’s Circle and on the advisory board of the Division on Earth and Life Studies (DELS). In addition to his current appointment, he currently serves as an advisor to the Climate Communications Initiative.

Chris is an photography instructor at the Santa Fe Photographic Workshops. He is also an adventure guide with Natural World Safaris, leading trips in the Polar regions. Chris works closely with Leica having recently completed an exhibition of his work at Leica Stores nationwide. Additionally, he was an ambassador for the launch of Leica's acclaimed SL2 camera.

Previously, Chris founded and sold two technology companies. He is also the founder of Nautilus Ventures, a seed venture fund. Prior to becoming an entrepreneur, Chris flew for the Navy as a Navigator and Mission Commander aboard P-3C patrol aircraft.

Chris graduated from the University of Illinois and holds an MBA from the Harvard Business School and an honorary Doctorate from Tiffin University. Chris serves on the board of Catchlight, a non-profit focused on supporting photographers and innovative leaders in the field of visual storytelling. Chris is also an advisor to the Union of Concerned Scientists, a Crown Fellow at the Aspen Institute, a Fellow of the Royal Geographic Society, and a member of the Explorers Club.

-Chris's Personal Projects-

National Academies "New Heroes"

Capturing the essence of leaders in science, engineering, and medicine through soulful images holds tangible value for our society. In a world often absorbed by the superficial, these quiet portraits can provide an opportunity to shift our focus towards the individuals who, through their scientific endeavors, play a vital role in our collective existence. Their profound impact on our lives ranges from advancements in health care and technology, to tackling pressing issues like climate change and energy sustainability. Each of these photographs is licensed freely and given to subjects, their institutions and, ultimately, the historical record.

As the Artist-in-Residence at the National Academies, he's photographed some of the nation's most accomplished scientists, from Astronauts to Nobel laureates.

Portfolio

His high-impact images have been seen by millions and have appeared broadly in print and in everything from Google screensavers to album covers. He has published a number of fine art books and is currently working on his latest book with travel writer, Pico Iyer.

The Philosophy Behind My Photographs

Christopher Michel at The Interval

"Terra Incognita: Exploring the Earth's Most Remote Places" was given on March 6, 02018 as part of The Long Now Foundation's “Conversations at The Interval” Salon Talks. These hour long talks are recorded live at The Interval, our bar, cafe, & museum in San Francisco. Since 02014 this series has presented artists, authors, entrepreneurs, scientists (and more) taking a long-term perspective on subjects like art, design, history, nature, technology, and time.