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

Mely, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

My relationship to the concept of success has changed a lot throughout the past few years. Honestly, I find it remarkable how much one’s appointed definition of it impacts one’s life. I grew up feeling sort of lost in life- I knew that being artistic was what came most naturally to me, but I wasn’t sure how I could ever translate that into “success”. This created a deep fear of failure in me at a very young age. I had a hunger for independence and stability, yet felt clueless as to how to achieve it.
Once I started studying Film, and building up my fine art skills, I started to feel more capable and saw a future for myself in which I could enjoy my career without needing to sacrifice the innate want for creativity and art.

Navigating through building my career in a new country where I knew no one, with a chronic illness (Type 1 Diabetes), and through a pandemic; it was chaotic- but all these obstacles and trials showed me how resilient I could be, and how badly I wanted this creative pursuit.

Eventually I hit burn out points that left me questioning it all. These moments were key- because they led to me redefining and opening my mind up to what success looks like. It made me so compassionate towards myself for maybe the first time ever. It made me incredibly grateful for my mind, my body, my health, the roof over my head, my spaces, all the new connections I had made… it made me open my eyes to all the success I had around me already, while still keeping my goals as a north star to follow. Nowadays, these experiences have helped me evolve into someone who’s success is gratitude fueled, rather than fear based.

Mely, 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?

I am a designer of many disciplines. I think it all routes from the simple idea of appreciating and creating beauty and exploring the human experience. That idea led me to move from Cochabamba, Bolivia, to Atlanta, GA for Art School. I decided to pursue a Film Degree there. I went to the Savannah College of Art and Design, where I found my passion for Production Design within Film and TV.
The Art Department life fit me like a glove. I quickly became the go-to PD for my peer’s short films. I gave my all to every project I jumped onto- I had so much fun and learned so much by designing several shorts, mini episodes, and pilots during my time at SCAD.
What I loved most about the Art Department positions, is that they allowed me to express myself not only through film, but through graphic design, interior design, painting, photography, and so much more. I truly love so many different art forms, I strive to be a part of as many of them as I can.
Post-graduation, I worked at a Prop House, surrounded by a million different items and furniture all being used in some of Atlanta’s major film productions. This taught me so much and exposed me to a different side of the industry and many new contacts. It also made me realize how much I enjoy logistics and organizing; which is why I now often act as a Creative Producer for projects as well.
After that, I had the pleasure of working in the Props Department for Marvel Studios. The world of Props at this level of a production is so exciting and fun; it shaped me in ways I can’t even describe.
I guess in a way, I’m a jack-of-all-trades, mastering Design. If you have a creative project, I can provide my talents in many options; Producing, Designing, Art Directing, Props, Illustrating, Graphics, and more! Creating art, whether it be films, photography, or visuals- that’s what I’m made of.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Funny enough- this happened very recently! My immigration journey in the US definitely had some character development in for me. I worked extremely hard throughout my college years and into my 1 year work permit (OPT Program, for those familiar or interested). Once that year of work was coming to an end, I tried everything possible to get sponsored, explore other visas, etc. But unfortunately- the film industry isn’t the most visa friendly career, and I wasn’t able to continue my journey in the US.
I’m not gonna lie, it was pretty gutting. I gave it my all, and really wanted to pursue the prospects that were aligning for me there. I’m still grieving what could’ve been. But alas- we pivot!
I’m currently back in my home country working remotely producing a couple of films- one of which is animated which is new for me and super exciting- as well as freelancing illustration and graphic design. After spending almost 6 years abroad, I’m grateful this change of plans is allowing for some much needed family and friends quality time. For now, Bolivia is my base of operations- though I’m planning on starting a new chapter next year!
Still figuring out the details, but I am UK bound and can’t wait to see what that has in store for me.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I couldn’t imagine living life without being an artist. I think it’s intrinsic to our existence as humans. I definitely feel that in my bones. For me- it feels incredibly rewarding to conceive an idea, whether individually or with a group of amazing creatives, and to watch this idea bloom right before your very eyes through arduous work and talent. Once you see that final product- and see how the world receives and reacts to it… that’s priceless. To see or hear someone be inspired by something you were a part of making… to see people identify, or laugh, cry; get impacted in some way, makes me feel so alive and so purposeful.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: mely.mendez
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mely-mendez-a27a441b8?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app