MELISSA TOLER ART
MELISSA TOLER [1996, Apparel Design]
Based in Saunderstown, Rhode Island
Melissa Toler graduated from the RISD Apparel design program in 1996. Soon after graduating, she discovered her passions for surface design and watercolor painting. She works in several mediums including watercolor, acrylic and gouache painting as well as charcoal drawing. Her inspiration comes mainly from the natural world as it relates to her personal experiences. A current theme in her work is the concept of “shadow self” or inner shadow. In this work, shadows represent unwanted thoughts and traits. “Shadow work” is the process of confronting and exploring the dark side of our personalities. The shadows in these compositions invite the viewer to embrace their authentic selves.
