About: Artist Melisa Cadell

BFA, University of North Texas, Denton, TX

Melisa works primarily in clay using the human form as an expression of the spiritual being that dwells within it. Her ceramic figures represent people who are changed through life experiences - their struggles, joys and journeys. What is reflected is not what society typically deems beautiful; their beauty is one of dignity, courage and strength.

This work for me, as I try my new role as a mother and my time in the studio. Since becoming pregnant and experiencing my son's birth, my work has focused on the fragility of birth and the responsibilities that come with it, how it is viewed and how this new life changes every prospective I have ever had.

As a woman I have known how very different I view life, but it is ten fold as I now hold my son in my arms. What used to be pride is now humility and strength is now weakness. Some of my figures are bird-like and they reflect both the hope for future generations to soar above the failures of today and what I feel within my own being as I become aware of my duty to make it possible. The work has always been about different aspects of this life-long journey. Now this part of that journey has become for me a beautiful and daunting reality. You will still see familiar themes, but my hope is that I have begun to have a better understanding of life as this miraculous gift.

Back to Index