Today we’d like to introduce you to Mel Deva
Hi Mel, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hi! Of course! Art has always been part of my life. I grew up in the countryside of Quebec, Canada. Creativity quickly became a way for me to process my emotions, explore the world, and express myself freely. Whether drawing, playing with color, or observing nature, art shaped my perspective and fueled my curiosity from an early age.
This passion for creativity naturally guided my education. I pursued studies in art and design, where I developed a foundation in composition, visual storytelling, and the technical skills to bring ideas to life. My time in design school taught me the importance of balance, structure, and intention in creative work, lessons that continue to influence my art today.
After completing my education in Quebec, Canada, I began my career as a visual designer at Ubisoft Montreal and eventually relocated to California to pursue visual development and art direction of video games such as League Of Legends and Valorant. These years gave me invaluable experience working on projects that blended aesthetics with purpose, and I learned how to visually communicate ideas that resonate with others. Even though I loved my work, I often found myself craving something more personal, a deeper way to connect with myself and my creativity.
The turning point came during a significant health challenge. This period forced me to slow down, reflect, and reassess my priorities. It was during this time of introspection that I returned to painting, not just as a creative outlet but also a path of healing, growth, and self-discovery. Painting became a deeply therapeutic and transformative practice for me, a space where I could process feelings, rediscover freedom, joy, and reconnect with the intuitive, emotional side of creativity that had always been part of me.
What started as a personal, meditative practice slowly grew into something I wanted to share with others. I’m inspired by nature, human experiences, and memories, often responding to a place or a moment. The ocean is a big inspiration for me, along with landscapes, weather, and those in-between moments like dawn, dusk, sunsets, or misty mornings. Each piece is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and connect with the world around you and within yourself. Through my art, I hope to inspire others to find their own connection and meaning in life’s beauty.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has been far from smooth, but it’s within the challenges that I’ve found the most growth and clarity.
The significant health challenge that I mentioned turned my world upside down. It was a time of deep uncertainty, both physically and emotionally, that forced me to slow down and reevaluate my life. As difficult as it was, I can say that it also became the most unexpected gift of self-growth and learnings. During that period, I rediscovered myself and painting, not just as an artistic practice, but as a deeply healing and transformative process. It became a way to process emotions, find balance, and reconnect with myself in a profoundly meaningful way.
Pursuing art full-time has been a big leap of faith with its own set of challenges. Moving from a structured career in design to the unpredictable world of being an artist has meant constantly learning and adapting. I’ve had to pick up business skills and navigate the competitive art world while staying true to my vision and voice. Thankfully, I’ve had the unwavering support of my friends and family, who have encouraged me every step of the way. Their belief in me has been a cornerstone of my journey, helping me stay resilient, resourceful, and grateful for every wins along the way.
Another rewarding and fun challenge has been learning to craft high-quality floating frames for my art. I wanted the frames to enhance and complete each piece, creating a natural extension of the work. Though the steep learning curve involved trial and error, but mastering woodworking techniques became deeply fulfilling. Seeing my art displayed in frames I’ve handcrafted adds a unique layer of creativity and craftsmanship to my practice.
Challenges have shaped me, teaching me to trust my intuition, embrace vulnerability, and navigate the unknown. From mastering frame-making to overcoming personal hurdles, each experience deepens my understanding of why I create. My work is about connection—with myself, others, and life’s complexities. The journey hasn’t been smooth, but it’s been deeply meaningful, and I wouldn’t change a thing.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My work is rooted in abstract art, where I like creating pieces that explore the interplay between nature, emotion, and everyday beauty. My style is characterized by organic forms, earthy hues, and subtle textures that evoke a sense of calm and introspection. Each piece begins as an intuitive process—a dialogue between intention and surrender—allowing the materials, emotions, and inspirations to guide me.
I believe that what sets my work apart is its deeply personal and reflective nature. My art goes beyond visuals; it’s more about storytelling and connection. I aim to create pieces that invite viewers to pause, reflect, and explore their own emotions and experiences within the shapes and colors I create. Nature is a central theme in my work—the organic forms, rhythms, and resilience of the natural world inspire me endlessly, reminding me of the harmony that exists within life’s chaos.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the way my art resonates with others. Hearing how a piece has touched someone, sparked a memory, or brought them a moment of peace is incredibly fulfilling. It reminds me why I create: to connect with others on a deeper level and to inspire reflection and introspection.
What sets my work apart is its deeply personal storytelling, conveyed not only through layers of color and form but also through the marks along the edges of my paintings. These marks and drips, intentional yet intuitive, carry their own narrative, capturing the energy and movement of the creative process. They act as echoes of the story within the piece, adding depth and authenticity while inviting viewers to explore beyond the surface. The edges serve as a unique extension of the artwork, revealing raw, unfiltered moments that augment the narrative. They symbolize the transitions and imperfections that are part of every journey, reinforcing the idea that beauty lies in the details and the unexpected. These marks make each piece feel alive and one of a kind, adding another layer to the connection and introspection my art seeks to inspire.
Ultimately, my work is about connection to ourselves, to nature, and to the world around us. I believe that art has the power to transform spaces and emotions, and I’m honored to share that transformative experience with others.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
One of the things I love most is its vibrant and diverse creative energy. It’s a place where art, culture, and nature coexist beautifully, providing endless inspiration for my work. The city’s unique neighborhoods, architectural charm, and proximity to natural landscapes create a perfect blend of urban and organic influences. Whether it’s the bustling art scene, the supportive creative community, or the calm beauty of nearby parks and coastline, there’s always something that sparks new ideas and fuels my creativity.
I also appreciate the openness and inclusivity of the people here. There’s a sense of possibility and acceptance that makes it easy to connect with others and share my art in a meaningful way. The city encourages individuality, which I think is so important for artists and creators.
What I like least, however, is the high cost of living. It can be challenging, especially for creatives and small business owners, to maintain a sustainable lifestyle while pursuing their passions. Additionally, the fast pace of life here sometimes feels overwhelming, it can be hard to carve out quiet moments in such a dynamic environment. That said, these challenges have also taught me resilience and the importance of finding balance, which I bring into both my life and my art.
Pricing:
- Original Paintings: Pricing varies depending on size and complexity. Current ranges are: • Small works: $500–$1,500 • Medium works: $1,500–$3,500 • Large works: $3,500 and up
- Commissions: Custom pieces are available starting at $2,000, with final pricing depending on size and specific requests. I work closely with clients to create bespoke pieces that align with their vision and space.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://meldeva.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meldeva_/
Image Credits
Joelle Lemercier
https://elogestudio.com
