Melissa Teitel

I am a third generation artist and have been getting my hands messy in one form or another since my mother put me in my first drawing classes at the age of eight. Before dedicating myself full time to my art I spent two decades working in luxury fashion in New York. Inspired by the varied textures, intricate drapes, and color palettes of the finest couturiers I seek to create art that elevates and transforms the energy of a space with vibrant colors, rich textures, and the sensation of movement.My paintings are layered, both literally and metaphorically. Each painting begins with the written word. Journaling on a blank canvas, I write about people, relationships, places, experiences, fantasies, dreams, prayers, and feelings. Though this psychic output may not be visible in the final product, it sets the energetic direction of each piece. I work with a variety of tools, including putty scrapers, rollers, sponges, cloth, and even my bare hands and feet, creating layers of rich color, bold lines and, ultimately, paintings that are both compelling and accessible.