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Melissa is an interdisciplinary artist who explores a diverse array of media, including sculptures made from cardboard and recycled materials, as well as digital art. Her work seamlessly integrates physical and digital realms, reflecting a commitment to both creativity and sustainability. As a trained artist and nominee for the Alan Young Art Student of the Year award, Melissa Simon-Hartman has dedicated herself to the world of creative education, offering workshops and art classes that embody a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Her approach to teaching is centered around fun and freedom of expression, encouraging participants to explore their unique paths through creativity. Art is not just her profession but her passion, and she seizes every opportunity to create pieces that reflect her cultural heritage. Below are some examples of her work, each telling a unique story deeply rooted in her background.
'A LONDON TING'
Digital collage by Melissa Simon-Hartman
Procreate & Photoshop
2024
"A London Ting," a series of nine digital collages by Black British artist Melissa, vibrantly captures the dynamic urban essence and diverse cultural tapestry of London. The artwork features a symphony of bold reds, murky blues, and vibrant yellows - colors that embody the city’s iconic elements like buses and phone booths, its often overcast skies, and the energetic street life. The collages merge these hues with fragments of everyday scenes, graffiti, and architectural elements, portraying the chaotic blend of history and modernity that defines London. Melissa's choice of imagery and textures reflects her own experiences as a Black British individual, weaving her cultural identity with the city's multifaceted character in a tribute that highlights London's continuous evolution and its impact on personal and collective expression.
CARDBOARD WEARABLE & DISPLAYABLE ART
Cardboard, Acrylic Paint, Acrylic Lacquer/Varnish, Resin
2020, 2023, 2024
Melissa Simon-Hartman, a visionary artist deeply rooted in her African cultural heritage, utilises recycled cardboard to craft sculptures that are both environmentally conscious and culturally rich. Her artistic process involves meticulously sourcing and re-purposing cardboard, which she first hand-paints with acrylics, imbuing each piece with vibrant life. Following the painting, a specialised glazing technique is applied, significantly enhancing the durability, longevity, and aesthetic appeal of the sculptures. This glazing not only protects the artwork but also imparts a captivating sheen, transforming the recycled materials into robust and visually striking pieces. Melissa’s work creates a dynamic interplay between sustainable practices and the rich visual narratives of African artistry, celebrating both the past and the present through innovative use of materials.
'CHOCOLATE NOSTALGIA'
Digital collage by Melissa Simon-Hartman
Procreate & Photoshop
2023
"Chocolate Nostalgia" by Melissa Simon-Hartman is a visually rich digital collage series that pays homage to Black women across various eras, highlighting the evolution of their style, strength, and beauty. Each piece in this collection captures the essence of distinct decades, from the elegance and refinement of the 1920s to the vibrant, expressive fashion of the 1970s and beyond. Through carefully selected imagery, Melissa showcases the timeless influence of Black women on culture and aesthetics. The collages are layered with vintage fashion, luxurious jewelry, and textured accessories, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of Black femininity. "Chocolate Nostalgia" serves as both a celebration and a historical record, reminding viewers of the enduring legacy of Black women in shaping trends and redefining beauty standards through time.
SCULPTURAL WALL MASKS
Clay moulds, acrylic sheets, yarn, shells, wood, plastic waste, acrylic paint, bamboo, upcycled metal scrap & shells
2021
Melissa Simon-Hartman’s afrofuturistic wall masks blend traditional African cultural motifs with futuristic elements, creating pieces that are both visually striking and steeped in heritage. These masks, available in various sizes and finishes, are crafted using handmade moulds made from clay. Melissa employs a technique of vacuum-forming plastic sheets - often repurposing waste plastic, to produce lightweight yet durable faces that are ideal for wall mounting. Her innovative approach not only highlights her commitment to sustainability but also her skill in material manipulation. In 2021, Melissa's unique artistic vision was recognised when she was commissioned to design and produce several of these masks for the TV series 'Step Up,' starring Ne-Yo, showcasing her work’s adaptability and appeal in contemporary set design.
'THE WISEST COUNCIL'
Digital Art & Resin Sculpture
2023
"The Wisest Council" is a moving art series that transcends the ordinary boundaries of portraiture, presenting an array of spiritual guides whose all-knowing gazes seem to penetrate the very soul. These guides, depicted with an almost celestial grace, are envisioned as the custodians of our deepest secrets and the architects of our destiny. Each portrait, a masterful blend of colors and emotions, radiates an aura of wisdom and understanding, as if these guides have traversed the realms of time and space to offer guidance and protection. Their presence in our homes and sacred spaces serves not just as a decorative motif but as a profound symbol of guardianship. They stand as silent sentinels, their eyes holding the mysteries of the universe, offering a sense of peace and reassurance. The art of "The Wisest Council" does more than adorn walls; it creates a sanctum where the boundaries between the physical and spiritual worlds blur, inviting the viewer into a state of reflection and serenity, and reminding us that we are never truly alone in our journey through life.
