Exploring Identity through Art

Natalie Melara (she/her) is a multidisciplinary artist based in Mohkinstsis/Calgary, Canada. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Alberta University of the Arts, Melara has established herself in the local art scene. Her works have been exhibited in prestigious galleries such as the Art Gallery of Alberta, EMMEDIA, Contemporary Calgary, and Stride Gallery. On top of her artistic pursuits, Melara also lends her skills as a photographer and retouch artist to Mathieson & Hewitt Photographers, a prominent studio located in Calgary's downtown core.

Mathieson & Hewitt Photographers

Melara's artistic journey has not gone unnoticed, as she has been recognized with several awards, including the prestigious New Zones Gallery of Contemporary Art Scholarship and the Joane Cardinal-Schubert Memorial scholarship.

Driven by her passion for exploration, Melara has sought technical training in diverse areas such as fashion design at Olds College and architectural design at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. These additional areas of expertise provide valuable context and inspiration for her artistic practice.

At the heart of Melara's artwork lies a profound cultural investigation, a reflection of her own experiences with displacement, and a quest to form a hybrid identity. By seamlessly blending various mediums and techniques, Melara creates visually captivating pieces. Through her art, Melara delves into the complexities and nuances of identity. Her work serves as a catalyst for dialogue and introspection, challenging societal notions and norms.

As a multidisciplinary artist, Natalie Melara continues to evolve and push the boundaries of her craft. Her curiosity fuels her development and leads her to explore new avenues for creative expression. Whether she is experimenting with different mediums, collaborating with fellow artists, or engaging in community initiatives, Melara remains committed to her artistic growth and the exploration of the human experience.

Through her unique perspective and expressive creativity, she invites us to embrace the complexities of our own selves and celebrate the beauty in the between.