Michael Seals (he/him) is a queer transgender man and multimedia artist who recently relocated to Bellevue. After graduating from Sam Houston State University with a BFA in Animation, Michael and his partner left their home in Texas to venture forth into the Pacific Northwest. His work centers around queer identity, personal identity, and his devotion to his loving partner and husband, Tristen.
“My Love“
2022
Acrylic on canvas
Exhibited at Rainbow on the Eastside 2025
“Discussions of gender-affirming surgeries often focus on medicalization, scarring, and the idea of ‘permanent damage’. A changed, transformed, or scarred body is simply a human body- as beautiful or valuable as any other. Inspired by bold patterns and the work of Kehinde Wiley, this painting shows the beauty and humanity of a transgender body.”
“Self-Made“
2021
Acrylic on canvas
Exhibited at Rainbow on the Eastside 2025
The process of a gender transition is ultimately a process of creativity and expression with the goal of creating your ‘truest self’. Inspired by the self-referential work of Norman Rockwell and the vibrant colors of French Fauve artists, this self-portrait shows gender expression as a process of radical self-creation.
Coming Out
Over a decade ago I began my transition after struggling to find an authentic identity for many years. It was difficult to imagine myself as an adult when I was in high school; then after graduating in 2014 I realized I needed to transition so I could truly be myself. I was lucky to have the support of my mother who has helped me in every way as I worked through this complicated process of metamorphosis. To me, transition is a lifelong process of change and I continue to grow closer to the person I am meant to be each day.
In 2019, I was lucky enough to find my partner Tristen while living and attending school in Texas. Through our relationship I learned what radical acceptance feels like and have grown into being exactly who I want to be. I am grateful to experience the beauty of queer love and queer community here on the Eastside!