Meet Melanie Stimmell Van Latum | Fine Artist & Creative Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melanie Stimmell Van Latum and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melanie Stimmell, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I think a lot of my success comes from the fact that I really do work hard every day. There is, of course, the times when ‘work smarter, not harder’ is relevant and a definite go to, but you can not underestimate the power of really applying yourself and working diligently to get things done. It doesn’t matter if I’ve worked 8 hours that day painting – I try and spend at least 2 hours sketching new ideas and working on an email newsletter, or replying to collectors. It’s a continuous cycle but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My fine art is feminine and whimsical with a little surrealism mixed in there. It an amazing feeling to be able to work through my ideas and concepts to create serenity in imagery. My passion lies in not only highlighting the moment, but also telling the story of the person who chooses to hang it on their wall – we fall in love with a painting because something about it speaks to our soul. You respond to it in a special way that makes it absolutely perfect for YOU because of your own unique narrative.

I’ve been creating art for over 30 years now and it’s always been something I’ve loved doing but there’s been a turning point in my career that I’ll be forever grateful for. I recently signed with ParkWest Gallery – after being a Top 10 Finalist in their ‘Made in Vegas’ art competition. They have galleries in Vegas, Detroit, Honolulu, Miami. So. my reach has suddenly expanded exponentially and it’s been a remarkable transition.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’ve lived in Vegas 6 years now and I don’t think we’ve come close to enjoying even a quarter of what Vegas has to offer. But when a friend comes to town there are a few things I insist we do…

The Neon Museum is always first on my list, especially if you are interested in art or history or just Vegas in general. It’s wonderfully nostalgic and almost tragically beautiful to see all these goliath neon sculptures resting in the desert sand. After that, it’s lunch at Casa Don Juan and a walk along Main Street’s antique shops – and of course a stop at the Arts Factory to see what the local art scene is cooking up. If it happens to be first Friday, stay through the evening and stroll the artist booths, have dinner via one of the many food trucks, or try some ax throwing :).

One of the things Vegas is absolutely known for is it’s BUFFETs. For me, It’s the Wynn Buffet! First, it’s completely gorgeous inside and definitely speaks to my feminine wiles. Trust me. It’s a must see and eat! Then a walk through all my favorite casino’s – not for the gambling but for the decor and the amazing art. Venetian has a gorgeous entry with the painted ceilings to look like the Ducale Palace, Caesar’s Palace – this ceiling, I actually painted. It’s one of my favorite projects of the last few years with it’s Baroque figures and ornamentation. And lastly. the Bellagio – always gorgeous and the fountain show is a must see for anyone visiting! Then maybe dinner at Mon Ami Gabi or the Eiffel Tower Restaurant – both in Paris Casino.

If you’re the outdoorsy type and it’s not 8,000 degrees out, I definitely recommend a hike in Red Rock or even the 13 mile Red Rock loop. It’s really awe inspiring.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout is 100% dedicated to my family, who never once said, “maybe you should think about doing something other than art”. They were always supportive of my creativity and me being able to find my way in the art world. I don’t think that’s the case for a lot of creatives so I feel very fortunate that I was able to pursue my passions without any negativity from the people you count on the most.

Even now, they are still completely on board with whatever I decide to do and now my husband and son are always there to help me reach just a little higher with my dreams and goals.

Website: www.melaniestimmell.com

Instagram: @melaniesvl

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melaniestimmellvanlatum/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtistMelanieStimmellVanLatum