Artists Melissa A. Mitchell wants to leaving a lasting legacy 

Born and raised in Miami, fine artist Mitchell moved to Atlanta in 2007 after graduating from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU). Following the passing of her father, Michael A. Mitchell, in 2010, a desire to leave a lasting legacy came upon Mitchell’s soul. 

“I noticed how the world mourned his loss and in that room, I said, ‘God, give me something to be remembered,'” Mitchell told The Atlanta Voice during a recent interview.

Then in February amidst a snowstorm in Atlanta, Mitchell stumbled upon a box of forgotten art supplies in her garage. Wanting to create a piece of work for her recently inducted Alpha Kappa Alpha incorporated sister, Melanie, she decided to get to work. “I’m not an artist, but overnight, on February 11th, 2014, I became a painter,” Mitchell remembered. That moment marked the genesis of her artistic career.

Mitchell says she draws inspiration from her surroundings, including patterns on carpets, designs on wallpaper, nail designs, patterns in leaves, and even the architecture of skyscrapers. She looks at the world through a different lens, constantly seeking inspiration in everyday objects and phenomena. “I really just look at the world around me through a different lens. I have a kaleidoscope that’s showing me something special. That’s just how I get inspired,” Mitchell said.

This next milestone in Mitchell’s career came in 2016 when she clinched a victory in a design competition hosted by Spanx. She became the first Black woman to win the coveted accolade. “I knew that I was more than just an artist, I was a global brand,” she said.

Beginning in 2023, Mitchell found herself catapulted from the confines of her studio to the prestigious halls of Bloomingdale’s, a journey marked by synchronicity and divine intervention.

“It was like a dream unfolding before my eyes,” Mitchell reminisces, reflecting on her unexpected collaboration.

In a fortunate twist of fate, Mitchell’s friend, Alexandria Ali, founder of FW Style, approached her with a proposition: a collaboration for Bloomingdale’s during Black History Month. 

Mitchell remembers eagerly accepting, “It felt like the universe was aligning in my favor,” she said.

Armed with 22 completed pieces of art, Mitchell wasted no time in seizing the moment. Within days, her artwork adorned the walls of Bloomingdale’s, transforming a back Bloomingdales storeroom in Lenox Square into a vibrant gallery.

“It was surreal seeing my art come to life in such a prestigious setting,” Mitchell said.

The response has been nothing short of awe-inspiring, according to Mitchell. “It was a humbling experience to witness people connecting with my art on such a deep level.”

For Mitchell, the journey into Bloomingdale’s was more than just a professional milestone; it was fulfilling her promise to herself.

“With passion and purpose, anything is possible,” Mitchell said. “Never underestimate the power of your dreams. With each brushstroke, you paint a portrait of possibility.”

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