ABOUT THE ARTIST

Michael Blanchard | Inspirational Photography

For Michael Blanchard, photography is much more than capturing a beautiful image. It is a form of meditation, a celebration of life, and an expression of gratitude for a second chance.

After a devastating struggle with alcoholism that nearly cost him his life, Michael found sobriety in 2010. What followed was an unexpected journey of healing and rediscovery through photography, writing, and a deep spiritual connection to Martha’s Vineyard.

Michael often describes his photography as an extension of his recovery. Whether standing alone on a Vineyard beach at four in the morning waiting for the first light of sunrise or watching the last rays of sunlight disappear over the ocean, he finds a serenity that once seemed impossible. After more than thirty years of struggling with alcohol, the simple beauty of everyday life became extraordinary.

His approach is influenced by the principles of Miksang, a contemplative form of photography emphasizing awareness, presence, and seeing the world with fresh eyes. Rather than simply documenting a landscape, Michael attempts to capture the emotion of being there. His goal is to recreate not just what his camera recorded, but what his heart experienced.

That philosophy has resonated with audiences far beyond Martha’s Vineyard.

Michael is the author of two award-winning books, Through a Sober Lens and Fighting for My Life, both recognized with prestigious Benjamin Franklin Awards for inspirational storytelling and photography. His work has received endorsements from Jamie Lee Curtis and Lance Bass, and Recovery Today Magazine described him as “The Ansel Adams of Recovery Photography.”

His photographs have appeared in Vineyard Style, Cape Cod Life, Photography Today, and other publications. His Crossroads Gallery in Oak Bluffs was named Best Gallery on Martha’s Vineyard by Martha’s Vineyard Magazine in 2019.

Beyond photography, Michael is a writer, speaker, and passionate advocate for addiction recovery and mental health. Through his books, public speaking, and personal storytelling, he shares a message that recovery is not simply about surviving addiction, but about discovering a life filled with meaning, purpose, and joy.

Giving back is central to that philosophy. Through his photography, writing, annual Inspirational Calendar, and charitable initiatives, Michael has helped raise more than $55,000 for Island nonprofit organizations, supporting causes ranging from addiction recovery and community services to animal welfare. He believes that one of the greatest gifts of recovery is the opportunity to help others.

Today, with more than sixteen years of sobriety, Michael continues to find inspiration in the Island he calls home. His photography is a reminder that beauty often exists in the simplest moments, if we take the time to notice.

“My hope is that when someone looks at one of my photographs, they experience even a little of the peace, gratitude, and joy I felt when I captured it. Photography taught me to see the world again. And for that, I will always be grateful.”

— Michael Blanchard