About

CV

Darin Gilliam, also known as Darin Michelle, is a multidisciplinary creative and arts advocate raised in Annapolis, Maryland. She holds a B.A. in Fine Arts with a concentration in painting and graphic design from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Following her early career in marketing and publications, Darin transitioned to freelancing, where she honed her expertise in creative direction, graphic design, and creative consulting.

As a full-time creative, Darin finds inspiration in color theory, textures, and the exploration of identity. Her dedication to the arts has extended into leadership roles, serving on the boards of the Maryland Federation of Art and the Arts Council of Anne Arundel County. She co-founded Annapolis Arts Week alongside Ben Isenberg of Symmetry Agency, a celebration of the arts that highlights her passion for fostering community through creativity.

Darin’s achievements include receiving the prestigious Few of Many Award, which honors individuals in Anne Arundel County who use art to preserve history, strengthen collective memory, and empower communities. Her impressive client portfolio includes collaborations with renowned names such as Rapsody, The Apollo Theater, The Moth, and Absolut Art.

Currently, Darin is the co-owner of ArtFarm Studios and AND Creative, where she focuses on artist relations, gallery management, marketing, and event coordination. Through her work, she continues to champion the intersection of art, community, and culture.

Work & Programming

Co-Owner, AND Creative & ArtFarm Studios, Annapolis, MD

Co-Director, Annapolis Arts Week, Annapolis, MD

Co-Founder, ArtWork is Work Expo, Annapolis, MD

Creative Director, MILKED Magazine

Creative Director, Our Rhythm Our Blues, Online Publication

Creative Director & Manager, Kaleidoscope Exhibit Celebrating Local & Historical Women, Annapolis Town Center (2021)

Leadership Team, Creative Paradox, Annapolis, MD (2012-2016)

Residency

2010, Studio of the Arts (SOTA), Annapolis, MD 

Publications / Interviews

2021 - Women of Commerce feature, Darin Michelle on Cultivating the Arts and Sticky Note Pep Talks, By Abigail Shipps

2019 - Annapolis Discovered feature on ArtFarm Studios by Visit Annapolis

2019 - Capital Gazette, Annapolis Arts Week celebrates creativity with parties, music, plein air painting and more, by E.B Furguson III

2019 - Severna Park Voice, ArtFarm Relocation Unearthed Common Ground, By Elizabeth Harwood

2016 - UpStart Magazine, Dreaming Big With Streetwear, By Melanie McCarty

Boards

2017 - 2018 - Board Member, Maryland Federation of Art

2021 - Present - Board Member, Arts Council of Anne Arundel County

Judge & Juror

2017 -  Judge, Paint Annapolis Plein Air Competition

2019 - Judge, AIGA Minnesota Design Show

2020 - Juror, Art of Activism, Maryland Hall