We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Meliza Ruby Almonte Cid. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Meliza Ruby below.
Meliza Ruby , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
The most meaningful project I’ve had the privilege to work on is the “717 Female Emotions” collection, a creative endeavor that originated from a desire to challenge stereotypes and celebrate the strength and complexity of women. This project’s backstory provides a glimpse into the circumstances and context that inspired its creation and why it’s deeply meaningful to me.
It all began with a recognition of the pervasive stereotypes that often label women as “complicated” and the misconception that independence is synonymous with the ability to do things without men. These stereotypes were not only inaccurate but also limiting, and they sparked the idea for a project that would challenge these notions.
To bring this concept to life, I personified my own experiences and emotions into four distinct female characters, each representing different aspects of my identity and the myriad ways I responded to various situations. These characters were named Ruby, Camille, Scarlett, and the enigmatic Mysterious Woman. They could also be interpreted as embodiments of different emotions, each having its name.
The project took the form of a series of large-scale artworks, with “Meet Ruby” being the first in the series. These paintings were created using acrylic paints, pastels, and oils on wooden planks, measuring 4 feet by 4 feet. “Meet Ruby” was unveiled in an art exhibition in West Palm Beach, Florida, in 2018, and the response exceeded my expectations. All four pieces were sold, and demand led to the creation of prints for a broader audience.
The significance of this project lies in several key aspects:
Challenging Stereotypes: The project sought to challenge the stereotypes that pigeonhole women as “complicated” and demonstrate that women can be diverse, strong, and multifaceted individuals.
Artistic Expression: Through painting and creativity, I found a powerful way to communicate a message about empowerment and independence.
Artistic Success: The positive response to the initial collection provided validation and a platform to further explore and expand on this concept.
Empowering Women: The project aimed to empower women by giving them a voice and demonstrating that they can define their own identities.
Now, the project is evolving and expanding. A new collection is set to launch in Miami on November 2nd, titled “717 Female Emotions.” This collection takes the original idea of personifying emotions and amplifies it on a grand scale. It includes an innovative partnership with Sharpie Creations, creating a combination of doodles and physical dolls representing real-life, day-to-day emotions. Additionally, the inclusion of male support through the use of lineal composition in each piece showcases a holistic perspective on emotions and relationships.
What makes this project even more meaningful is that it’s not just about art; it’s about making a statement, creating awareness, and fostering support for women’s empowerment. In fact, this collection is being submitted to the Guinness World Records as the first Dominican-American female artist to create 717 art pieces with a powerful real-life message. It’s a testament to the art’s ability to tell a story, create awareness, and inspire change. This project has become a passionate journey of self-expression and empowerment that I hope will resonate with many and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse world.
Meliza Ruby , 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?
Absolutely, let me introduce Meliza Ruby A., the Whimsical Visual Artist:
About Meliza Ruby A.:
I am Meliza Ruby A., a contemporary visual artist with a passion for bringing the intricate and beautiful complexities of life to life through my art. My journey in the art world is an amalgamation of self-discovery and professional refinement, ultimately allowing me to specialize in a unique style that I like to call “whimsical.”
Entry into the Art World:
My artistic journey began as a self-taught artist, driven by a deep love for the creative process. Over time, I honed my skills through professional training, allowing me to express my ideas and emotions with more precision. This journey of artistic self-discovery led me to specialize in mixed media, particularly using acrylics and oils on a diverse range of canvases, bodies, and wood. It’s through this medium that I found my voice to convey the profound and nuanced aspects of life.
Products/Services/Creative Works:
As a visual artist, I offer a range of visually stunning and emotionally resonant artwork. My pieces are an exploration of various themes, from culture and landscapes to the celebration of feminist qualities and the triumph over life’s challenges. My work is characterized by vibrant colors and bold strokes, deeply influenced by my Caribbean heritage, which infuses my pieces with a burst of life and intensity.
Problems Solved for Clients:
I provide a unique solution to those who seek art that not only adds aesthetic value to their spaces but also connects on a deeper emotional level. My art speaks to the viewer’s heart, inviting them to explore the beauty and strength that often hide within the chaos of life. Through my work, I encourage self-love and the acceptance of both our strengths and vulnerabilities, emphasizing that perfection is not the goal.
What Sets Me Apart:
Whimsical Style: My whimsical style sets me apart from others in the industry. I blend vibrant colors and bold strokes to create art that is not just visually appealing but emotionally evocative.
Diverse Mediums: My versatility in using various mediums, from canvas to the human body and wood, showcases my adaptability as an artist. This allows me to cater to a broad spectrum of artistic tastes and preferences.
Cultural Influence: My Caribbean heritage has a profound impact on my art, infusing it with an essence of vibrancy and energy that sets it apart from more traditional styles.
Professional Expertise: My professional background in architecture and design informs my art, making it suitable for interior spaces and corporate or industrial environments. This adaptability is a testament to my versatility.
What I’m Most Proud Of:
I take immense pride in the ability of my art to connect with people on an emotional level. When someone sees my work and is moved by it, it’s a profound and gratifying experience. I’m also proud of my journey from being a self-taught artist to a professional, as it exemplifies the idea that with determination and passion, one can achieve their artistic dreams.
Key Message for Clients/Followers/Fans:
I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my art is not just about aesthetics; it’s about the celebration of life, the embrace of our imperfections, and the recognition of strength within chaos. Through my work, I aim to inspire a deep connection with one’s own emotions and with the world around us. Whether it’s for personal enjoyment or to enhance the atmosphere of a corporate space, my art is a reflection of the profound beauty that surrounds us, even in the most chaotic moments of life.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
Supporting artists and nurturing a thriving creative ecosystem is not only culturally enriching but also economically beneficial for society. In the case of Meliza Ruby A. and all artists, here are several key strategies that society can implement to offer robust support:
Art Education and Awareness: Foster an environment that promotes art education from an early age. Encourage schools to include art in their curricula, and create awareness about the importance of art and creativity in shaping culture.
Financial Support: Provide grants, scholarships, and funding opportunities for artists. Financial support can help artists invest in materials, workshops, and professional development.
Accessible Workspaces: Establish affordable and accessible studio spaces, galleries, and exhibition venues. This ensures that artists have the infrastructure needed to create and display their work.
Mentorship Programs: Set up mentorship programs connecting established artists with emerging talents. This helps emerging artists gain guidance and insight into the art world.
Diversity and Inclusivity: Promote diversity and inclusivity within the arts. Support artists from underrepresented communities and create equal opportunities for all artists to thrive.
Promotion and Exposure: Support artists in marketing and promoting their work. Public art projects, art fairs, and digital platforms can be used to increase exposure and accessibility.
Collaboration with Other Industries: Encourage collaboration between artists and industries such as architecture and design, as seen in Meliza’s work. This can lead to innovative and unique creations.
Public and Private Sector Investment: Government agencies, as well as private businesses, should recognize the value of art and creativity. They can invest in cultural initiatives, sponsor exhibitions, and commission public art projects.
Intellectual Property Protection: Ensure that artists have clear and fair copyright protection for their work. This allows them to benefit from their creations and encourages ongoing artistic production.
Art Appreciation and Collecting: Encourage art appreciation and collecting as a way to support artists. Art enthusiasts can invest in art, helping artists sustain their careers.
Public Spaces for Art: Design public spaces to incorporate art, making it more accessible to the general population. Street art, public sculptures, and community art projects can enhance urban aesthetics and cultural identity.
Art Residencies and Programs: Establish art residencies and programs that provide artists with the time and space to focus on their craft, experiment with new techniques, and connect with other artists.
Arts Funding Agencies: Strengthen and maintain arts funding agencies or councils that provide financial support to artists and arts organizations.
Art Therapy Programs: Promote art therapy programs that harness the healing and transformative power of art in healthcare and well-being.
Cultural Exchange: Facilitate cultural exchange programs that enable artists to travel, collaborate with others, and broaden their perspectives.
Supporting artists like Meliza Ruby A. and fostering a thriving creative ecosystem is a collective responsibility that benefits society as a whole. Art has the power to inspire, provoke thought, and create meaningful connections, making it a valuable asset for cultural and economic growth.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
Meliza Ruby A.’s creative journey is distinctly guided by a profound mission that centers on celebrating the intricate tapestry of life and the deep, often complex, emotions that define our human experiences. Her art serves as a testament to the rich diversity of cultures, landscapes, and personal narratives that intertwine to form our world. However, her mission goes beyond this, encapsulating a broader purpose.
Meliza’s creative path is driven by a mission to instill a sense of self-love and acceptance in her viewers. She aims to encourage individuals to embrace their unique strengths and vulnerabilities without being fixated on the pursuit of an unattainable perfection. Through her vibrant colors, bold strokes, and evocative artwork, she inspires people to recognize the beauty and resilience that exists within the chaos of life.
Furthermore, her work embodies a celebration of feminist qualities and the stories of overcoming obstacles, underlining the importance of empowerment, resilience, and the breaking of societal barriers. This mission transcends the boundaries of culture and gender, resonating with a universal human experience.
In addition, it’s worth noting that her son, Christopher Moises, another artist, is similarly driven by a passion for exploring emotions and character influenced by Asian culture. This dynamic, where the family shares a common creative spirit, also speaks to the mission of celebrating diversity, embracing emotions, and finding beauty in cultural expressions.
Meliza’s mission is not just about art; it’s about promoting a deeper understanding of ourselves, our world, and the power of embracing the beauty that arises from life’s complexities. Through her art, she invites us to embark on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance, acknowledging that true strength often lies in our imperfections and our ability to navigate life’s chaos with grace and love.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @bymelrub
- Facebook: By Melrub
- Youtube: By MelRub
Image Credits
Photographer: Winston Barrios