Today we’d like to introduce you to Mel Sage. She shares her story with us below:
Mel is a San Diego-based wood artist. She strives to design unique and meaningful pieces that stand out in each client’s home while simultaneously creating a boho-chic vibe.
After receiving her bachelor’s degree in architecture from Clemson University, Mel worked as an architect in Manhattan for two years. Noticing a creative itch that wasn’t being scratched, she moved to Philadelphia and started building her art business. After a year of development, this east coast native decided to embark on a life in California. Three years later and Mel’s art business is thriving with clients on both the east and west coast and all areas in between. Mel draws her inspiration primarily from nature and topography with a nod to architectural site models. As a long-time, surfer and ocean enthusiast, she also pulls from the sea and bathymetry. When Mel isn’t working away in the wood shop, she’s out surfing.
She founded her art business in 2018 and has found more pleasure in it as the years have gone on. Developing a vast and original portfolio in custom work for individual homes, businesses, and hotel chains such as Hilton and Virgin Hotels, Mel has become a well sought-after artist in the wood field.
Now based in Miramar, California, Mel continues to offer an extremely professional and distinguished artistic vision to her clients. She is an integral asset to any individual or company looking for a fresh take on modern minimalist decor. Contact her at hello@sagewoodworks.org.
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?
Any artist will tell you that pursuing your passion comes with a number of challenges. My biggest challenge has been growing my business to the point where I can focus on it full-time. It took two years for me to be able to ditch any side jobs and direct all of my attention on my art. Even so, there can be lulls between projects that would have anyone a bit nervous! For me, the grind never ends and it’s my dedication to the hustle that keeps my business afloat.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Topography and architectural site models heavily inspire my work. Each piece I make is based on real topography and bathymetry of different places all over the world. The titles of my works are named after the location where the unique curves are pulled from. When I’m making custom work for a client, the client has the option to choose an area of interest and have that place be the influence for their one-of-a-kind, unique piece of art.
It’s this level of detail and personal touch that I like to think makes my clients happy and coming back for more!
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?
As a woman in this primarily male-dominated field, I’ve had to work through many obstacles to get where I am today. That said, the industry outlook is promising, as I find that the more I dedicate to my craft and business, the more respect I garner as a female in the woodworking world.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sagewoodworks.org
- Instagram: @sage_woodworks
Image Credits
Allison Davis
