Artist of the Month May 2011

Melissa Daubert

Cleveland, Ohio

Born in Erie, Pennsylvania, I created my first portfolio in eleventh grade earning a scholarship to study at the Columbus College of Art & Design. Here I earned a BFA in Illustration while working as a metal fabricator and welder for the school. After graduation I served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Africa where I taught metalworking in rural Zimbabwe. After Peace Corps, I joined the team building the Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland, Ohio. Designing numerous exhibits that are still part of the museum’s permanent collection today.

In 2005 I established Interactive Works of Art, a sole proprietorship through which I create work locally, regionally and nationally for museums, hospitals, theaters, public spaces, private institutions and individual collections.

How and when did you start creating art?

I can’t remember ever not making art, but I do remember the first time I stole because I wanted to make art. I was in Joanne Fabrics with my mom and stole all kinds of sewing stuff. After getting in huge trouble, she got me stuff to make my first soft sculpture.

What media and genres do you work in?

My work combines sculpture, motion, light, and/or sound with visitor interaction. The interactive nature of my work is meant to bring people to the moment. To keep them engaged long enough to communicate ideas with them.

Who or what are your influences?

My work has roots in Illustration and exhibit design. My ideas are inspired by underlying goals. Goals can be: Educational - I want visitors to understand or learn something Healing - I want visitors to feel something Problem solving - I want visitors to figure something out I translate these goals into art where visitors play an active role in the life-cycle of the work.

OM was inspired by global awareness, learning and healing. What it would be like if entire world sang with one voice? What would we hear, see, feel?

Describe your creative process?

Problem-solving drives my creative process: I research, experiment and prototype ideas.

What are you working on currently?

I am currently installing OM at Playhouse Square for the International Children’s Festival and getting ready to do a residency in India this fall.

What are your near/long term goals as an artist?

I have plans to travel OM.

Where can people view/purchase your work (gallery, website, etc)?

My work can be seen at http://www.melissadaubert.com/.