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Melanie Jeffs http://www.workshopwonders.com Mediums - ceramic Artist's Statement -As a professional ceramic artist based in Montana, my artwork is continually inspired by nature. I have studied ceramics since the 1980’s and have evolved as a specialist in ceramic tile design. My individual bas-relief tiles and multi-tile murals reflect landscape and wildlife themed designs. Another important aspect of my work is functionality. In the tradition of the Arts & Crafts Movement, my artwork is highlighted as architectural features. I challenge myself to create handmade ceramic tiles and handcrafted murals that can be incorporated into everyday life. Artwork and functionality go hand-in-hand. Art projects I have worked on include a wildlife tile mural installed in the historic Roxy Theatre of downtown Missoula, MT. As an Artist-in-Residence with the Badlands National Park, I had the wonderful opportunity to create a handmade tile mural reflective of that unique environment. In addition, I have participated with the Artist*Forest*Community program with the Holter Museum and the Helena National Forest. From that experience I have enjoyed creating a handmade tile mural featuring the forests and rivers of the Rocky Mountains. Throughout my art projects the environment plays an important role. Gallery Affiliations - Exhibitions - |  |
Biography - Badlands National Park: Artist-in-Residence with the Badlands National Park. Participation included residing at the Badlands National Park for four weeks and creating a handmade ceramic tile mural featuring the Badlands landscape for public display at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Educational outreach program designed and implemented with local grade school students involving the creation of handmade tiles. Artist*Forest*Community: Participation as Artist-in-Residence with the Artist*Forest*Community program with the Holter Museum of Art and the Helena National Forest. Participation included residing in a National Forest cabin and the creation of a ceramic sculpture reflecting on the experience. Roxy Theatre Tile Muralist: Commissioned artist to design and create a public community tile display for the International Wildlife Film Festival and Media Center, installed in the lobby of the historic Roxy Theatre in downtown Missoula, Montana. Professional Artist: Designs and creates ceramic tiles and sculptures. Skills demonstrated include technical knowledge of ceramics such as clay body characteristics, glaze and stain application, and safe operation of kiln. Duties include continual creativity, inspiration, dedication, and research. Studio Artist: Participating studio artist with The Clay Studio, a nonprofit facility for the ceramic arts located in Missoula, Montana. Supporting the mission to promote the ceramic arts through educational classes, workshops, and outreach programs for adults and children. Opportunity Grant Recipient: Awarded by the Montana Arts Council to recognize the pursuit of artistic excellence in Montana. Small Business Owner: Owns and operates Workshop Wonders, a ceramic arts business founded in Missoula, MT. Workshop Wonders specializes in ceramic tile design, home decor, and garden sculpture. Duties include market research, creating product lines, marketing products, financial accounting, inventory regulation, and public relations of business. In addition, design and maintenance of the web site for Workshop Wonders, www.WorkshopWonders.com. Created as a venue to increase exposure and market artwork on a national scale. Media Recognitions: Artwork featured in national publications including Tile & Decorative Surfaces, The Tile Letter, Niche Art Magazine, and High Country News. Media highlights include ABC News affiliate feature interview, South Dakota Public Radio arts feature interview, and Featured Artist with Montana-Artist.com web site and the Missoula Cultural Council web site. |