Melissa Brittain Biography
Artist statement: For me art has always been a big part of my life. My family has many artists, some
professional and some amateur, so I have always been exposed to different types of art. For that reason I
believe I look at objects from a more abstract view. I am inspired to paint by the energy of people and
their emotions. I believe the human being is the most complex and mysterious of all things, and for this
reason I paint to capture the emotional state of people.”
Melissa Brittain is a native Georgian living in the Atlanta area. As a child she would draw
figures with fashion from magazines. Melissa moved from pencil to watercolor and acrylic on
paper. Her education started when she had the desire to paint with oils. “I knew at that point I
would need direction. It has opened a whole new world for me and I can now translate my
emotion to the viewer.”
Melissa is a multi-media artist integrating oil paint and mixed media into her unique
and decidedly elegant feminine works of art. She starts a painting by
texturizing the surface and applying glazes of color until she is satisfied with the placement of
objects and shadows. She utilizes a variety of surfaces from canvas to board and tile.
Melissa has created an elegant series capturing the magic and allure of women in sophisticated
gowns. She paints this collection on carefully selected tile and has become known for her ability
to translate the essence of a female from her brush to the slate. “The figures on tile seem to take
on a life of their own. It is remarkable to see the emotions change with the smallest stroke of a
brush.” Another series captures the openness and innocence of children at play. “I think this
series takes the observer to childhood experiences and matters of the heart”.
As the audience for her work continues to expand, along with her reputation in the art
Community, so does her creative energy. She continues to attract much interest in her work from
public and private collectors and designers. Melissa is available for commissioned pieces for
those who have specific taste.
Shows and awards:
Atlanta Artist Association “The Buckhead Library Show” 2007
Smyrna “Christmas Exhibition” 2007
Juried show “Generosity Art from the Heart” 2008
Juried show “Smyrna Artist Association Art Walk” First Place 2008
Smyrna “Christmas Exhibition” 2008
Phillips Fine Art Charity Shows 2008
Emory University-My House “Gift in Kind” 2008
Galleries and representation:
Definitive Publishing 2007
Art Space International 2008
High Point Market 2008-2009
Americas Mart 2008-2009
Parker-Marsh Gallery 2009-2010
Paul Robinson Fine Art 2010-2011