Melissa Eggleston Exhibition
“In a Flash” at the Arts Council in July

Meet Melissa

Melissa Eggleston is a neo-naturalist artist working out of her open studio in Bath, Michigan. Having an open studio policy is central to Melissa’s mission of connecting with the public. “Allowing people to come, watch and ask questions is key for me,” explains Eggleston. “Part of making art approachable is being open and inviting people in.”

Growing up on what is now the Peacock Road Tree Farm helped shape her life view. However, the mold was probably already cast generations before with her rich family history of naturalists and outdoorsmen.

Melissa lists her grandfather William Johnston (artist and forest ranger) as a primary influence on her art.  As a child, she would often visit her grandparents at their cottage in Manistee National Forest. The fields, woods, streams and creatures they contained were her wonderment. Her respect and love for them were natural and predestined.

Melissa’s art is the record of her very real conversations with Nature.

Anthropomorphic, surreal, and even abstract at times; it springs to life, incarnate with her humane and authentic voice. Melissa fervently believes in the innate value of each creature in nature; She openly accepts and ardently defends the reaction of every person viewing her art.

The title piece of this exhibit (In a Flash) recently won the “Best Abstract” award at a national juried competition in Tubac, Arizona. And while honored, she is equally thrilled to be able to share it and the rest of this exhibit with the fabulous Old Town art community.

Artist Statement

“In a Flash, both as a piece and an exhibition, was born out of my fascination with birds and flight. I’ve always felt I live my life in the negative space between art and nature. They both speak spiritually to me. I am most excited when I can share my love of either with friends. I am most fulfilled when they overlap.” 

Join us for Melissa’s Opening Reception during Arts Night Out!

Friday, July 14, 20175 -8 p.m.Arts Council of Greater Lansing1208 Turner St.Old Town Lansing