Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Melissa Crosson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Melissa thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

Am I happy as an artist? I absolutely love creating art. It is vital to my being and I want to bring joy and positivity through my art, no matter what realm of art it is. What I feel is more pertinent to ask is how do I feel about being an artist?

It has its ups and downs like any career path. Sometimes you’re nailing it, but other times you might not be. However, if it’s what you truly feel like you are meant to do, it’s all worth it. Art is worth it to me.

I actually do have a regular job to help me pay for my art and fashion. Its crazy jumping from Medicare sales, yes Medicare (which I represent all the companies in NC), but I make it happen to keep a roof over my family’s head, food on the table, and allow me to continue to pursue my dreams.

Melissa, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Let’s see…

I got into art and fashion in college after I had a few years of disconnect because art was not available to me. I decided I enjoyed producing art more than anything else and started my business Nomadic Artist in 2003. I traveled to different venues and then became more disciplined in making fine art rather than crafts (which are AMAZING). I just wanted to express myself in as many paintings and styles as possible. Close to 200 paintings later, I applied to ArtPop Street Gallery.

Last year I was one of 20 artists accepted into ArtPop Street Gallery which has major exposure throughout NC and even some other states as well. I was accepted based on my style of combining black bold lines of batik art, color, and southern patchwork.

Since then, I have been able to evolve my art into fashion and created my own fashion line, Nomadic Artist Streetwear, to be shown at Charlotte Fashion Week two years in a row. My last collection, which was my second, one me best upcycled designer which I take great pride in. All of Nomadic Artist Streetwear is upcycled, custom clothing designed to help anyone feel empowered and beautiful.

What I want people to feel when they see my art or fashion is to see how we all can connect and the importance of art in creating that connection. Life can be brutal. Life can be grand. We all experience similar things even though they might be in different ways. It’s no different when you’re looking at art. It’s going to cause a reaction and I want it to be beautiful and help us embrace one another.

I am in charge of the western expansion of AIM meant to connect local artists to teach art to middle school aged youth with the NCMA in Raleigh. I just was accepted to have my 2nd children’s book/coloring book by a local publisher set to come out in April 2024!

Can you share your view on NFTs? (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)

I think they are a bunch of bologna and a big scam. I wish I had something positive to say about them but they all lead me to nowhere.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

I feel the best way for society to support other artists and creatives is to start locally. We see the most impact and change in our world if we focus on those in our community. Everyone wants a community to thrive no matter what the skill setting is of that individual. If we help those in our hometowns and counties, we can see their success and growth which is what we should do for one another. Help us all grow in our own skills and share them with one another.

Another thought of mine is it’s not just up to the communities to support artists. Artists need to help support one another as much as possible. When we all can embrace one another, that’s where success and change really happens.

Contact Info:

• Website: mcrossonfineart.com, nomadicartiststreetwear.com
• Instagram: @melissacrossonart @nomadicartiststreetwear
• Facebook: @melissacrossonart
• Linkedin: Melissa Crosson-Skoyles
• Twitter: @melissacrosson

Image Credits
David Andrews, @hdandrewsphotography (just model photos)