Meet Melissa Mastrangelo-Diaz | Artist and Instructor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Mastrangelo-Diaz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
Realistically in the next decade, not so much the end of my career (as I’ll prob be painting until I am no longer able) the end goal is to have a brick and mortar business. As much as I love the mobile aspect of my businesses, the pop ups and classes, it would really be nice to have a store front and gallery of my own. Would love to have a permanent place to teach out of as well.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I’d like to think my art brightens up the room! I tend to use exaggerated colors in my landscapes and sea life portraits, which I guess sets me apart from other marine life artists. Right now I’m so excited that ALL my art (besides a few pieces I will never sell) are out in the world temporarily! I currently have work in two restaurants, couple of gallerys, and a show in Downtown Delray.

Getting to where I am now was not easy. I’m not from here originally, which alot of local artists that were born and raised here have that advantage. It took a lot of networking and hustling to make the necessary connections to reach success. I’m so thankful for those that have helped me along the way especially when I was first starting to get my name out there a decade ago.

In general, I honestly make art as therapy and to promote happiness in my use of bright colors. I love to paint ocean life too because it also brings me.joy. Being underwater is my escape from everything. I love to teach painting as well to give others that sense of calmness after a hectic day which is why I’ve continued hosting Paint and Sips for 9+ years. All and all, I’m just a girl that loves art and the ocean 🙂

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well since I’ve interviewed with you guys before… my always go to is the Keys, Delray, and Jupiter which I’ve said. So if I had to pick another favorite place locally maybe take a day trip up to St Augustine. Stay by the beach, take my Jeep Wrangler for a spin with the top off (you can drive on the beach there), hit the lighthouse, San Sebastian Winery, Ice Plant, and St Augustine Fish Camp for dinner, followed by a haunted ghost tour. Luckily living in Boynton we are about a 2-4 hour drive from everything!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband Imer Diaz is the behind the scenes/ sidekick of both my businesses. He helped be my muscle for about 5 months for my paint and sips when I broke my ankle. He would leave work just to come help me out and keep Mobile Masterpieces afloat. He also keeps me company at pop events, helping with the tent and heavy lifting. Everyday he is my biggest supporter and wants me to eventually have a store front as well. I wouldn’t be where I am successfully without him.

Website: www.dreamincolorartfl.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/dreamincolorart

Facebook: Facebook.com/dreamincolorartfl