Today we’d like to introduce you to Melanie Bell
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Growing up in Houston, art and creativity have been a big part of my life and it’s something l’ve always gravitated to.
I started doing stained glass in the mid 90’s, then moved a few years later. Life happened and the boxes were never unpacked until I retired from my career as a hairdresser in
2015. We moved to the country and I had a studio built so l could do stained glass and didn’t have to clean up at the end of the day!
My stained glass was a big seller on Etsy, but I became bored of the routine of doing custom sizes of my previous work. I yearned for letting my creativity flow…
Pottery had been something that always attracted me, so I took lessons and learned the basics. I chose the hand building method, as I saw more opportunities for creativity. I haven’t looked back!
I currently use 3 different clay bodies and an array of textures and a cool color palette. My work includes wall art, hanging planters, altars, shrines, vases and vessels. I like incorporating elements of nature in my pieces for a cool vibe and flow.
I do a few local markets each year and have an Etsy shop.
I’m excited to be coming into Art Machine Gallery and looking forward to what the future holds!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The thing I’ve struggled the most with is getting my art out there. I’ve done a lot of art shows, markets and festivals. I’m always working to bring new and fresh pieces to my current gallery and Etsy site.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I love an organic feel when I’m creating. Using cool or neutral glazes and different clays to achieve the look and feel on each piece. My hanging or wall art is created using natural fibers and real wildflower impressions. Texture is a big part of my art. Knowing what glaze I will use when I’m laying down texture has been a trial and error process.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I’m happy where I am now. Keeping balance in my life is key for me. I’ve been retired for 10 years, have 3 rescue dogs and a vegetable garden, and live on 35 acres in Willis. There is always something that needs to get done!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tigerloveswater.com
- Instagram: @tigerloveswater
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/shop/tigerloveswater
