Michelle Leveille intended to become an exotic bird veterinarian, and enrolled at the University of California at Davis for their renowned vet school.
But the mandatory animal experiments went against her beliefs.
Chimpanzee skull by Michelle Annette Leveille
Fortunately, a roommate introduced Michelle to her research in the human medical school. Michelle began teaching gross anatomy in the lab while studying to become a neurosurgeon.
Alas, a bout of meningitis rendered Michelle unable to continue her education for a year.
During that time she was approached by her Anatomy professor and a representative from the Royal Geographic Society to illustrate their books.
Arrangement of pack saddle on a draft reindeer
by Michelle Annette Leveille
for the Royal Geographic Society
That was in 1991. Michelle graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Arts and Sciences in Anatomical Illustration, and has been happily creating educational artwork ever since.
