CV
Mel Renea is a cross disciplinary artist whose current work focuses on merging experimental design and artisan handcraft to enhance livable spaces through visual ecosystems embedded with functional art. Her background in fashion and fiber craft, along with research in experimental fabrication methods and material studies inspires her current studio practice.
Education
2013- BFA, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
2019- Digital Fabrication for Rapid Prototyping, School of Visual Arts, New York, NY
2018-2020- Botanical Studies, Botany Program, New York Botanical Gardens, New York, NY
Exhibitions/ Showcase
2023- Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, Richmond Region, VA, Juror
2023- Shapes and Colors, Gallerium Art, Virtual Group Exibition, International
2022- A Well to Draw From, Visual Arts Center of Richmond, Richmond, VA
2022- All Media Show, ArtWorks, Richmond, VA
2016- Fashion is Art Gala to Benefit RAL, Richmond, VA
2015- RAIN Fashion Show, Richmond, VA
2013- RAW natural born artists Showcase, Richmond, VA
2013- New York Fashion Week, New York, NY
Published
2023-The Book of Arts: SHAPES and COLORS
2021- Boomer Magazine, Issue 1
Awards
2022- 3rd Place, All Media Show, Artworks RVA
2013- Donald E. Breitinger Design Excellence Award
2013- Richmond Fashion Designer of the Year Award- RAW Awards
Residencies
2023- Pond Farm Artist in Residence, Guerneville, CA
2022- Studio Access Residency, Visual Arts Center of Richmond, VA
Teaching
2023- Natural Ink Making Workshop, Blue Door Gallery, Guerneville, CA
2022- Intro to Felting, Visual Arts Center, VA (Residency Workshop)
2020- Teaching Assistant, Biohacker Boot Camp, Genspace Bio Lab, Brooklyn, NY
2020- Mentor, FIT Scholars Program, Genspace Bio Lab, Brooklyn, NY