We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Melissa Renee. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Melissa below.
Melissa, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
Playing around with paints that aren’t part of my normal practice along with exploring new techniques and materials helps keep my creativity alive. Frequent trips to art stores and local art galleries are big motivators as well.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a contemporary artist with works that span the globe. Creating paintings, wallpaper murals, and textiles is my passion. My work can be found in luxe Interiors + Design Southern California Edition. I began my career in the beauty industry where I worked behind the chair as a color specialist, educated for major color brands, and spearheaded a startup beauty company as their National Sales Manager. With a desire to explore new ways to express my creative self, I returned to school to receive a formal art education. Growing up between two worlds, I was shaped by country living in the South, and sunny days spent at the beach in Southern California. The ocean captivated my heart, inspiring the name ‘fiery for deep blue.’ Although resin seascapes make up a large portion of the work I do, I also love to work with other mediums such as oil and acrylic. Creating contemporary pieces with the addition of metallic pigments and a bold color palette provides a nice contrast to my serene pieces. I have gallery representation across the US along with representation for the movie, film, and print industry. Seven of my paintings can be found at EverEve retail stores across 5 states. I am a current member of the Orange County Fine Arts Association and the Dana Point Fine Art Association. Most recently I launched an art publishing company that caters to the global wall decor market.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
One area of knowledge that has been impactful in my journey was partnering with Orange County Fine Art and Dana Point Fine Art Association. These groups have allowed me to participate in group shows at Showcase Gallery along with various group shows at the Marriott Hotel, and various shows at Dana Point Marina. It’s great to be apart of a community of artists. Another impactful area is continuing education. Playing around with new materials and watching online tutorials helps as well. Finally, don’t give up…stay involved by joining a local art community.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
On days that I may feel overwhelmed I find peace in connecting with nature. A walk around the neighborhood or sitting at the beach watching waves roll in bring a sense of calm.
Image Credits
John Philpotts 86pics_
