We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Melanie Oliva. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Melanie below.
Melanie, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I love this quote by Cory Allen: “Meaning in life isn’t found, it’s created by giving power to what makes you feel alive”.
I always say yes to opportunities that scare me and I listen to my gut when making career choices. This has allowed me to try so many things and I’ve found myself in a place where I’m creatively fulfilled. I make the art I want to make which addresses social and environmental issues, I advocate for non-human animals and I help others learn creative skills.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I use my creative skills to advocate for Earth and her inhabitants – through paintings, activism and group art activations. You can currently see three paintings from my environmentally-focused After-image Series on light boxes in Miramar, FL, at these intersections: Miramar Parkway & East Knolls Road, Miramar Parkway & SW 172nd Ave and Dykes Road & SW 29th St.
I also teach teen art classes with the Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami and The Frank C. Ortis Gallery, as well as private lessons. Last year was the first year I taught private portfolio development lessons. I’m happy to report that all of my students were accepted to the art schools they applied to!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
My background in advertising has helped me tremendously as a professional artist and art instructor. While I got a late start as a fine artist, I’m so thankful to have learned the following early: 1) Professionalism 2) Organization 3) Writing, design and marketing skills.
Here in Miami, I’ve received many opportunities simply because I communicate, I’m reliable and I’m consistent, all of which fall under professionalism. My organizational skills allow me to juggle multiple projects, deadlines and clients. The writing, design and marketing skills I developed as a Creative Director have been invaluable in promoting my artwork as well as activist causes.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
My current challenge is a physical one. I have cervical dystonia which causes my neck to spasm and tense up; this is very painful and is not ideal for painting or working on the computer. I’ve finally found a combination of treatments that are helping, including physical therapy, strength training and Botox injections. I’m starting to feel normal again and look forward to painting more in my future!
Contact Info:
- Website: melanieoliva.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/melanieolivaartist
