We had the good fortune of connecting with MelimeL and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi MelimeL, why did you pursue a creative career?
I didn’t so much pursue a creative career, but more so like a creative path chose me. I was always artistically inclined as a child; whether it was my curiosity in music, dance, acting, writing or love of color. I naturally gravitated to artistic expression, so it is not surprising that I grew up to eventually become a graphic designer and beyond that, explore creativity as an active practice of my work in general. As a Creative Artist, I have the opportunity to engage in the act of creating art from a place of passion and purpose. Art’s essence lies in imagination, exploration, curiosity, inspiration, and innovation, qualities that are accessible to all of us. There is a sweet freedom and magic in being an artist that I fully enjoy and see myself always being in the thick of it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Recently, my work as a Creative Artist has revolved around mental health, empowerment, social emotional learning (SEL), and artivism (art as a means of activism). How I arrived where I am today professionally has been through authenticity, connecting with others and approaching my work from a place of empowerment. Some of the most amazing opportunities I’ve had wasn’t through a 9-5 but from taking a chance on myself and my own internal validation. One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned on this journey is that while working towards goals, achievements, and building a career is important for survival and self-realization, our professional identity doesn’t define who we are. The idea of success can evolve and look different from our initial expectations. I’ve come to understand that introspection, self-awareness, and a commitment to healing and personal growth are more critical. Without mental health there is no wealth, regardless of all the success one may achieve.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
As a born and raised New Yorker, NYC with all its hustle and bustle, is one of the greatest places on earth for artists and creatives. I love to travel and have visited many places around the world, and NYC is one of those places where you are happy to leave it for a while but yearn to come back to eventually. There is an energy and a nuanced grit that NY has that is hard to find anywhere else. It’s hard to describe and put into words. One of the things I love about NYC is the ability to meet anyone from anywhere at any given time. There is a rich cultural diversity that makes NYC a global melting pot. There is something for everyone and no shortage of things to see, do, eat, or enjoy!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout is dedicated to my late grandma, Mama Ana, who passed away at the age of 99, the same year I gave birth to my firstborn. She was my biggest cheerleader, and many of my fond memories of her revolve around us sharing many belly laughs. She had the greatest sense of humor and I believe my own love of laughter was passed down from her. I strongly believe the woman I am today is in great part due to the love, protection, and comfort I received from my grandmother. And while she is no longer living, her impact and spirit very much lives on in my life.

Website: https://www.mldigitalart.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mldigitalart/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mldigitalart/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mldigitalart

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MLDigitalArt/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/mldigitalartvlog

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