Melissa Turner Drumm shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Melissa , it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
Everyone has their own rhythm of life and way they would like to spend their time. I have Artist friends that go into their studio and happily work all day everyday. I have always enjoyed making art along with travel, family time, cooking, yoga and reading! Each Artist has their own pace and path. There are no direct steps that A leads to B and so forth. I love the unchartered path and creating my own way as changes inevitably come along.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Family and food are primary focuses. In the last few years of social and political divisions I started making work that is less about conceptual social commentary and have delved into making sculpture about family celebrations and favorite foods that bring us together.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
An undergraduate printmaking Professor at Tulane named James Steig. A quiet, talented, generous gentle soul. Every week we would have a studio visit to discuss my recent work. At the time I was working on 6’ oil paintings of mannequins breaking through walls, windows, fences. He mentioned a hand was out of perspective and to fix that. I said fine I’ll work on it. The following week we visited and discussed the same painting. He mentioned the hand looks better. I said “Great, I didn’t touch a thing”. We laughed and he said I had moxy and was ready for my plan to move to NYC!
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes I cannot count that many times. However, I always return to the joy of creating and the enrichment and dimension it adds to my inner life.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That being, looking, acting loud and garish translates as more creative. Or taking drugs and drinking make you more creative. It clouds clarity and individual vision.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes. It’s a great way to live under the radar and enjoying making art.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://melissaturnerdrumm.com
- Instagram: @melissaturnerdrumm
- Linkedin: Melissa Turner Drumm
Image Credits
Lloyd Drumm, photo credit.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
