I am originally from upstate NY and came to Ocala when I was about 7 years old. My childhood was full of artistic endeavors, so here I am today, continuously working on my career as an artist and mentor to other young and aspiring artists. When I was in college I studied with Jack Thursby, who I feel so fortunate to have had guidance from while I was trying to find my path as an artist. It is every-changing; it something to absolutely embrace; and it's an amazing self-discovering journey.
I have been painting for about 16 years at this point and have always tried to get involved in art events here in Ocala and continuously felt we needed more resources for artists in our community like workshops, lectures, community projects, residencies, etc. Now we finally have the chance to bring something great to not only our artists, but for our community. MAX will bring a complete artist hub, learning station and incubator to artists from all backgrounds, no matter if they are just starting out, been in the field for years or if they are thinking about dabbling into the arts. Studio settings are important for artists, I know from when i was in Thursby's classes, there is nothing like having a bunch of artists in one room sharing ideas and helping one another. The combined concepts from just having another artist working along side you was so helpful...I miss that. The MAX studio spaces will be this for artists...just a question away from a brilliant idea!
I can absolutely say that when I heard of the ideas and passion behind everything involved in the Magnolia Art Xchange (MAX) I became excited about what kind of future that something like this can bring to Ocala. I wanted to do my part and help our community, so I joined the MAX Board of Directors and now I am working with some of the most wonderful, creative and passionate people that share the same ideas for artists in our community. As an artist myself I know that we thrive on energy from others, so this Art Incubator will do wonders for any artist out there with questions about how to further their career...it is very exciting and I can't wait to start working with these artists!
MEL FIORENTINO - Ocala Artist
Learn more about Mel by visiting her website: www.melissafiorentinoart.com
I have been painting for about 16 years at this point and have always tried to get involved in art events here in Ocala and continuously felt we needed more resources for artists in our community like workshops, lectures, community projects, residencies, etc. Now we finally have the chance to bring something great to not only our artists, but for our community. MAX will bring a complete artist hub, learning station and incubator to artists from all backgrounds, no matter if they are just starting out, been in the field for years or if they are thinking about dabbling into the arts. Studio settings are important for artists, I know from when i was in Thursby's classes, there is nothing like having a bunch of artists in one room sharing ideas and helping one another. The combined concepts from just having another artist working along side you was so helpful...I miss that. The MAX studio spaces will be this for artists...just a question away from a brilliant idea!
I can absolutely say that when I heard of the ideas and passion behind everything involved in the Magnolia Art Xchange (MAX) I became excited about what kind of future that something like this can bring to Ocala. I wanted to do my part and help our community, so I joined the MAX Board of Directors and now I am working with some of the most wonderful, creative and passionate people that share the same ideas for artists in our community. As an artist myself I know that we thrive on energy from others, so this Art Incubator will do wonders for any artist out there with questions about how to further their career...it is very exciting and I can't wait to start working with these artists!
MEL FIORENTINO - Ocala Artist
Learn more about Mel by visiting her website: www.melissafiorentinoart.com
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