Meet Melissa Benedek | Artist

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

Hi Melissa, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
The biggest lesson my career has taught me is resilience, trusting the process and showing up consistently. Success isn’t one big moment, but the relationships you build and the growth that comes from staying committed to the work.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My love of art began in my father’s Soho gallery, where I was surrounded by creativity and exposed to diverse styles and artists. From a young age, I was passionate about color and creating, which led me to study at the Art Students League in New York City at just 13.

Although art was always central to my life, I went on to become a jewelry designer and launched my own business, exploring color, texture, and form in new ways.

During the pandemic, I was confined to my small New York apartment. I picked up painting again and everything changed. I began attending gallery openings, connecting with artists, and sharing my work online. Soon after, a gallery owner invited me in for a meeting, and from that moment my art career took off. I started exhibiting regularly, was accepted into juried shows, and new opportunities continued to unfold. Along the way, I’ve learned that following your passion and doing what you love takes persistence and belief in yourself. Staying true to who you are is the key that opens every door.

Today, I paint intuitively, creating contemporary abstract art that flows straight from feeling and instinct. I begin by choosing a color palette and canvas. I fill my studio with music that moves me and let the energy and rhythm take over. I never know exactly where a painting will go. Each piece unfolds on its own. For me, it’s like stepping into an adventure every time I face the canvas, watching the work reveal itself is one of my greatest joys.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to visit, I’d show them the amazing galleries in Soho, grab lunch at Balthazar, then head downtown to wander, soak in the energy, and catch some great live music. We’d finish the days with rooftop drinks, cozy dinners in the West Village, and a walk through Central Park or the Met, balancing art, music, and the best of the city.

For me, New York’s magic is in the mix world-class art, unforgettable food, vibrant nightlife, and those unexpected little corners that make the city pulse with energy.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to shoutout to artists who use creativity to grow, and connect. There’s so much incredible work in our community that deserves more recognition, and I love supporting those who share their unique perspectives with the world.

Website: https://MelissaBenedek.Com

Instagram: MelissaBenedek_Art