Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Kelley.
Hi Melissa, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I have always loved different styles of art. Painting, photography, sculpting, jewelry making, glasswork, etc. I love all of it. Growing up in south Florida has been a constant inspiration to paint. We have beautiful sunrises and sunsets that glow and the ocean shows us an array of blues and greens that seem to constantly change. I began taking painting classes and I haven’t stopped creating since!
I love painting on canvas, paper, wood, glass, and anything that will hold color. Thinking about all the colors that I can blend that will eventually be part of a piece of art brings me much joy. I sold my art in a small local gallery for almost 4 years and I have participated in a few local art festivals. Taking classes and continuing to practice helps me continue to learn and better create.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Creating art has not always been a smooth road for me. Like many artists, I have experienced that annoying voice inside my head that filled me with self-doubt. I asked questions like am I good enough? Is my art good enough? What if people don’t like what I create? What if people don’t like me? What is my sales plan? Am I charging too much or not enough?
Once I found comfort in my style, I let go of the negative self-talk in my head. I have realized that my creations are fine the way they are, and to enjoy the journey of creating. This didn’t happen overnight. It takes practice and patience to overcome self-doubt. I still push myself to try new creative techniques and not be afraid to fail.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As I get older, I have the time to take classes and practice. Starting with watercolor, I have moved more towards acrylic painting and alcohol ink painting. All three mediums allow me to continuously paint abstract art, along with mixed media pieces. Today, I create and teach in my private studio and lead a monthly painting class for a group of senior citizens in their independent living community.
I also volunteer my time painting at a local children’s hospital and other facilities. I can’t express in words how lucky I am to spend time with these groups of completely different individuals. Their creativity and willingness to learn are a gift to my heart. Recently, I have started collaborating with another artist to create one of a kind pieces that combine both our styles of art. I look forward to sharing those unique pieces in the near future.
In the meantime, my art has been or is currently displayed at the Palm Beach Gardens City Hall, the Palm Beach State College Eissey Campus Theatre, the Jupiter Community Center, various local restaurants, law offices, and private residences in Florida, Maryland, and North Carolina.
We all have different ways of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success for me is to continue to be open to all the opportunities to learn and grow personally. As an artist, it helps to focus on a few things at a time and do them well. Having a positive impact on other people’s lives, for example, my children, family, and friends, as well as my students, is a gift.
Contact Info:
- Email: Melissakelley713@yahoo.com
- Website: melissakelleyart.com
- Instagram: @melkelley
