Melissa Arostegui
Melissa Arostegui's artistic journey began in her formative years, where her deep fascination with narratives, form, and color began to shape her creative path. She studied everyday objects in her early drawings and found joy in storytelling, even crafting a mock newspaper as a child. In college, her art was influenced by the works of artists like Elizabeth Murray, Alex Katz, and David Hockney, which is unmistakably reflected in her bold portraits and whimsical still-life paintings.
After earning her BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Melissa ventured into the art world, showcasing her talents in various exhibitions across Illinois. Notably, she held a solo exhibition at the Air Studio and Gallery in Glencoe, titled Beyond the Surface: Assumptions Unveiled. Her participation in events like Bare Walls at the Art Institute of Chicago and other exhibitions nationwide further solidified her presence in the art community.
Recent group exhibitions have showcased Melissa's work, including Chromatic Convergence at the Zhou B Art Center in Chicago, Refreshing Feminism at the Woman Made Gallery in Chicago, and Evolve.Women.Wisdom at Long Hall Gallery in West Hollywood, California.
Artist Statement
My art is a collection of narratives based on personal stories—challenging stereotypes and assumptions, while capturing the essence of everyday life. Through my work, I aim to forge connections and illuminate the shared human experiences that unite us all.
www.melissaarostegui.com
What initially drew you to art?
From a young age, I’ve been drawn to art. It all began in kindergarten when my teacher initiated an art contest, where we were tasked with depicting our favorite place in Oak Park, my hometown. I drew my house using simple geometric forms and vibrant primary hues. My artwork was selected from all the submissions across the district and even featured in our local newspaper, The Oak Leaves. This early recognition ignited a spark within me. Moreover, my mom, an artist herself, played a pivotal role in nurturing my artistic inclinations. I remember watching her paint in her studio. Her support and encouragement have been instrumental in fueling my passion for art.
What elements of your life have ended up becoming part of your art?
Elements of my life that have become part of my art include the stories I've read or heard, as well as my personal experiences. Since childhood, I've been enamored with narratives, finding joy in both reading and writing stories. Stories possess a magical ability to connect, inspire, comfort, and empower us, and I love that. In my art, I paint these stories—whether they stem from my own experiences, those of others, or a reaction to a particular moment.
What about your practice do you find the most fulfilling and/or energizing?
What I find most fulfilling and energizing about my practice is the act of painting, especially when working on a large scale. When I immerse myself in my art, I put my whole self into the work. There's something incredibly invigorating about applying bold colors and meticulously examining the details of each piece. I find myself fully engaged, reflecting on the composition and how each element interacts with the whole. This process not only ignites my creativity but also fills me with a sense of fulfillment.
Tell us about your experience getting to where you are now. What has been the most important thing you’ve learned?
My journey to where I am now has been a testament to resilience and dedication. Through ups and downs, the most important lesson I've learned is to never give up on my artistic dreams. I've discovered that what truly matters is the process of creating art itself. It's in this process that I find fulfillment and emotional grounding. The act of bringing my imagination to life through art not only makes me feel good but also reaffirms my purpose and passion as an artist.
How has community impacted your artistic practice?
The impact of community on my artistic practice has been profound and multifaceted. From attending the Art Institute of Chicago to participating in cooperative art galleries and group shows, I've been fortunate to be surrounded by a diverse array of talented artists who have inspired and influenced me. What I love most about being involved in artist communities is the spirit of collaboration and the wealth of knowledge and inspiration I gain from others. Connecting with fellow artists sparks a lively exchange of ideas, techniques, and perspectives, keeping my artistic journey fresh and energized.
