Today, we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Allegories.
Hi Melissa, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Navigating the artistic journey: From vision to reality.
Smile Sweet Sunflower LLC. and Time2Bloom™ were inspired by my admiration for the sunflower, a symbol of hope, positivity, and resilience. Just as sunflowers turn their faces towards the sun in search of light and warmth, I strive to cultivate a similar sense of optimism and growth in everything I do. The names reflect my belief in the power of hope to drive positive change. With values rooted in Love With Truth & Clarity, Hope for the Greater Good, and Belief in Our Capability, I aim to inspire other leaders, advocates, and the community at large with the storytelling arts.
I established Smile Sweet Sunflower LLC on July 13, 2022, to enable me to pursue my grand idea. Success for Smile Sweet Sunflower LLC means making a positive impact in the world through artmaking. It’s not solely defined by financial gain or recognition; rather, it’s about contributing positively to society through creative expression and meaningful art. Stories matter. Characters matter. My aspiration extends to collaborating and envisioning the transformation of my artistic expressions into widely shared narratives.
Reflecting on the journey thus far, I’m both relieved at how far I’ve come and filled with anticipation for the challenges ahead. I am excited about the prospect of an on-site exhibition in Broward County, Florida, in 2024. Over the past six months, I’ve occasionally assisted the Event Manager at the esteemed Bonnet House Museum and Gardens in ensuring seamless event execution and unforgettable experiences for a variety of occasions, including weddings and holiday festivities, while maintaining the historical and natural beauty that defines this cherished venue.
Additionally, I poured my heart into writing the first five chapters and completing 30 illustrations for the “At the Garden” project, a labor of love that has tested my perseverance. Alongside this, I designed my website with complementary materials: text, video/audio, and other resources. Each illustration, from the smallest detail to the medium-sized compositions, tells a story of dedication and resilience, embodying the essence of Time2Bloom™. I also created an additional six 6 in x 6 in artworks, totaling 36 pieces of three different sizes: minuscules, small, and medium works of art.
The Broward County Cultural Division has long provided major support to the Coral Springs Museum of Art. As part of their ongoing support for the museum in Coral Springs, Florida, I have chosen to showcase and donate six out of the sixteen art minuscules from my “Art at the Garden” project for their exhibition/fundraiser “Empty Walls”! Hidden amongst other gems, “At the Garden: A Showcase at Empty Walls,” held between February 22 and March 30, 2024, at the east gallery of the Coral Springs Museum of Art, offered a first glimpse into my upcoming solo exhibition, set to take place this summer.
Earlier this year, we hosted Moonrise 2024 at the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens to support HANDY, Inc. (Helping Abused Neglected Disadvantaged Youth). Thanks to the support of H.O.M.E.S., Inc. (Housing Opportunities, Mortgage Assistance, & Effective Neighborhood Solutions, Inc.), ART13 (which promotes, curates, develops, and empowers the rising art trend and beyond), and Vicki Rosenthal Art (advancing advocacy through authentic art), I had the opportunity to leave my creative mark on a mural, “Beyond The Canvas.”
Beyond the Canvas/PEACE panel, a captivating community public art initiative is showcased on the outdoor wall at the H.O.M.E.S., Inc. campus, adjacent to the Little Art Galleries. This inspiring project, spearheaded by artist Vicki Rosenthal and curated by Frank Polanco, brought together the creative contributions of local artists, including Chuck Prescott, Christian Feneck, and Doreen LoRusso, alongside enthusiastic community members.
These opportunities allowed me to leave my creative mark on the community while collaborating with organizations such as H.O.M.E.S., Inc., ART13, and Vicki Rosenthal Art, all dedicated to creating positive change. All of these companies recognize the interconnectedness of various social issues and the importance of collaborating to address them comprehensively, thereby amplifying their impact and creating positive change for the community.
In addition to these milestones, I’m honored to have been selected for the second edition of THE LITTLE ART GALLERY. This will provide Broward County residents with a small preview, beginning April 27th, of what’s to come at the library this summer. Huge thanks to artist Vicki Rosenthal for her patience, warm welcome, and for introducing me to Art 13/Frank Polanco.
Now, as I add the final touches—varnish, framing, and printed materials—I’m excited to share this journey with you all. Join me at my debut solo exhibition, “At the Garden,” supported by the Broward County Cultural Division, at the Sunrise Dan Pearl Library starting July 22nd, 2024. This fusion of visual arts and literature invites you to explore a world of allegory and imagination, where philosophical ideas are brought to life through modern storytelling.
As I continue on this journey of artistic exploration and self-discovery, I’m grateful for the unwavering support of my community. Your encouragement fuels my passion and inspires me to reach new heights. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Creative Solitude: Embracing individuality in artistic expression.
I am a writer, illustrator, and designer who finds solace and inspiration in solitude and introspection. Despite enjoying dancing growing up, I’ve never been much of a party-goer. While socializing and networking can offer inspiration, collaboration opportunities, and a sense of community, I naturally gravitate towards solitude and introspection in my creative process. Therefore, I prioritize quiet moments of contemplation and uninterrupted studio time to explore my ideas without external influences.
I allow external influences to inform my intuitive connections, which I then refine and process internally through introspection. My creative process is guided by an inner voice and intuitive connections; this often originates from external influences that I later process internally when I am alone. While I value insights gained from interactions and experiences with the world around me, I find that true creative clarity emerges during moments of solitary reflection.
While some artists may draw direct inspiration from external sources and immediately incorporate them into their work, others thrive in social settings and networking opportunities. I prefer to immerse myself in quietude, which lends itself to finding deeper insights as a source of inspiration.
As Carl Jung, the Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, aptly said, “The shoe that fits one person pinches another; there is no recipe for living that suits all cases.” This quote resonates with my belief that each artist’s journey is unique, and there is value in embracing our individual preferences and approaches to creativity.
Having been away from the art scene for some time and now returning with renewed passion, I’ve noticed the distinct circles that artists often find themselves in. There’s the “party art” circle, where the focus is on entertainment and socializing; the “political art” circle, which addresses social issues and activism; and then there’s the “spiritual-philosophical art” circle, which resonates most with me.
I’ve drawn to the spiritual-philosophical circle, where artists explore deep themes and engage in ethical storytelling. It’s not about politics for me; rather, it’s about delving into existential questions and inner growth. I’ve come across the term “secular spirituality,” which I think describes this exploration well—a journey of spiritual inquiry that’s not tied to any specific religious tradition.
Some artists in this circle also refer to their work as “healing art,” emphasizing the transformative power of creativity to promote healing and well-being. Interestingly, many of us share a fascination with gardens, which serve as symbols of growth, renewal, and connection to nature. Nature, particularly gardens, provides solace; going for walks and being outdoors allows me to introspect while also inspiring me.
Solitary reflection enables me to delve deeply into my thoughts, emotions, and creative vision without external distractions. Such an individualistic approach allows me to prioritize authenticity and sincerity in my work. It gives me time to break away from the noise and make sense of all the information I’ve gathered; moreover, it enables me to extract insights and ideas that can be applied to my work in both the written word and visual arts.
While I may not always fit in with the more socially oriented artists in my community, I have learned to take pride in the depth of my creative outputs, which reflect the unique perspective that comes from following my inner muse. In navigating these circles, I’ve come to realize that there’s a fine line between them, and artists often move between them based on their interests and values.
Finding my place within the spiritual-philosophical circle feels authentic and aligned with my creative vision. It’s about staying true to myself while exploring the profound depths of human experience through art.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Exploring “At the Garden” & Blossoming Creativity.
I have discovered that my work aligns closely with that of book cover and gift card designers, blending creativity with a sense of purpose. Additionally, I have identified myself as a theoretical or abstract thinker and practical Idealist. Encountering challenges and doubts from within and without, I have been stressed by moments of uncertainty and adversity, yet I have embraced these challenges as opportunities for personal and professional development.
The Artist Support Grant, provided in Broward County, Florida, offers a unique opportunity for individual artists across disciplines, furnishing funding for projects culminating in a public event. The grant aims to fuel career advancement through creativity, innovation, and sustained dedication to artistic pursuits. Supported by the Broward County Cultural Division, my “At the Garden” project explores themes of temperance and human flourishing, inviting viewers to contemplate the balance of healthy hedonism for growth.
I cherish my coffee, tea, and chocolate, yet I hold great admiration for perseverance in the face of adversity as long as it aligns with reasonable and worthwhile pursuits within one’s proximal development. Nevertheless, the profound impact of superheroes during the Great Depression served as beacons of hope for the American people (Digital Scholarship Lab©, 2020). Through the transformative potential of storytelling, I harness the power of narrative to breathe life into abstract concepts and guide viewers through stories of perseverance and the ethos of hope.
“At the Garden” offers glimpses into different facets of this captivating narrative. Chapters include “The Iris Family: Wings of Adversity,” “Roots of Sanctuary: A Golden Eagle’s Odyssey,” “A Kingdom’s Fall: ScarCity Saga,” “Shattered Utopia: A Saga Unveiled,” and “Garden Revelations: Love’s Awakening and Freedom’s Echo.” By offering the first five chapters for free along with a booklet of insights via https://www.visualwriting.art/at-the-garden.html, I aim to provide you, the audience, with a captivating glimpse into the depth and richness of my narrative.
Drawing inspiration from Seneca’s wisdom on the shortness of life, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of temperance in cultivating a flourishing environment. Moreover, rather than viewing nature and nurture as opposing forces, I see them as complementary elements shaping our lives—an interplay between biological predispositions and environmental influences that sustain our existence. At the heart of my creative process lies the allegory of temperance, symbolized by the majestic golden eagle-hybrids.
My hope is to enhance the overall experience for you by combining illustrations and audio elements and potentially offering prints and the complete novel for sale in the near future. Ethics or moral philosophy serves as a guiding beacon on my creative journey. Contemplating the nature of ethics and secular virtues, I seek to infuse my work with meaning and purpose, inviting others to join me in the pursuit of a life well-lived.
In essence, my work is a reflection of who we are and the world we’re creating together—a celebration of humanity’s collective journey toward self-actualization and human flourishing. Through the storytelling arts, I strive to inspire and empower others to create spaces where thrivingness can manifest, illuminating the path toward a brighter, more harmonious future.
Citation: Digital Scholarship Lab©. (2020). America’s Part on the Rise of Comic Books in the 1930s. History Engine 3.0. https://historyengine.richmond.edu/episodes/view/6326
What matters most to you?
Spiritual Insights: Nature, ethics, and conscious creativity.
Jealousy often lurks as one’s shadow, manifesting as the redirection of negative energy towards others rather than confronting and healing one’s own insecurities at their root. Nevertheless, I choose to surround myself with individuals who are passionate about discussing transformative ideas and are motivated by a shared desire to uplift humanity. We collectively inspire progress and contribute to shaping a better world for future generations.
In the midst of all the short-term joy and all the entertainment in our inner and outer worlds, there is a yearning for a tempered radical change within me and out. Transcending ego-driven desires is integral to my creative process, as I prioritize intrinsic worth over external markers of success, such as money and status. As a means of making a positive impact in the world through art, success is not solely defined by financial gain or recognition; rather, it’s about contributing positively to society through creative expression and meaningful art. Stories matter. Characters matter.
In my pursuit of meaningful storytelling, I draw from the wisdom of the late Rev. Dr. Carol Maree Hoffman, who taught that spirituality transcends traditional boundaries and can be found in nature, community gatherings, and moments of introspection. I align with the principles of agnostic humanism, valuing the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals while recognizing the collective responsibility to create a more compassionate and equitable world.
As an artist, writer, and designer under Smile Sweet Sunflower LLC., my creative process is deeply intertwined with nature and the concept of collective consciousness. Nature serves as both a source of inspiration and a grounding force, pulling me out of my thoughts and allowing me to focus on the present moment through mindfulness.
This connection to nature fosters a break from solely intuitive thinking as I engage with my surroundings through all five senses, enhancing my empathetic intuition and facilitating clarity and wisdom in my work. In my artistic endeavors, I strive to communicate ethical virtues and deeper themes through allegorical storytelling. My slogan, “Life Is What We Make It, so Let Us Make It WORTHWHILE,” reflects the sacredness of life and the importance of embracing ethical principles.
Additionally, it underscores my belief in the power of collective consciousness to shape a better world through the manifestation of good ideas. Inspired by the insights of Sam Harris, I recognize the impact of ideas on human behavior, emphasizing the importance of promoting ethical values to prevent the perpetuation of harm caused by “bad ideas.”
In tandem with Jung’s insights, everyone possesses this potential for darkness, which he termed the “inner shadow.” Jung delved into the concept of the inner shadow, exploring how seemingly ordinary individuals could commit profound acts of evil. Acknowledging this capacity for evil, driven by “bad ideas,” is essential; by acknowledging and consciously choosing to reject our shadow selves (as opposed to being unconsciously governed by subconscious and unconscious thoughts and triggers), we can demonstrate ethical integrity and moral rectitude.
Furthermore, Sadhguru’s teaching on the necessity of conscious choice resonates deeply with me. Just as he encourages individuals to choose consciously, I, too, believe in the importance of intentional decision-making in both personal and creative endeavors. While our evolutionary history may have given rise to certain tribal instincts, such as our predisposition to form cliques, we share a common human desire for ethical and virtuous living.
Although it is challenging, we can transcend these instincts through an ongoing commitment to personal and societal growth with conscious effort. As a result, we can move away from our artistic temperaments, obsessions, and extremes of dark emotions and continue to move forward collectively as rational and emotionally intelligent beings.
Pricing:
- At the Garden: Unveiling the Secrets of Lében’s Enchanted Realm Paperback – November 29, 2023 | Buy new: $9.98 at https://a.co/d/cMWyuTj (Amazon)
- At the Garden: Unveiling the Secrets of Lében’s Enchanted Realm Kindle Edition | Available instantly: $0.99 at https://a.co/d/6BdUoNA (Amazon)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://melissartworks.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissallegories/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smilesweetsunflower/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/smilesweetsunflower
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/time2bloomshop
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmileSweetSunflower
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/melrose85/sets/at-the-garden
- Other: https://linktr.ee/smilesweetsunflower
Image Credits
Frank Polanco
