Artist | Entrepreneur | Writer | Mentor
Creating expressive art & unique brands.
Empowering artists through mentorship & online courses.
Open to collaborations.
About Melissa Mitchell
Hi, I’m Melissa Mitchell—an artist, writer, and creative entrepreneur living on the Texas Gulf Coast. My work blends storytelling, visual art, and mentorship. From painting coastal scenes to mentoring fellow artists and writing weekly reflections on island life, I’m guided by a deep passion for creativity and meaningful expression.
Storytelling at the Heart of Everything
I’ve always loved telling stories—though I didn’t always realize I was a storyteller. In high school, after reading my writing assignments, my principal told me I should write a book. I laughed. At the time, that wasn’t on my radar. But I did make up bedtime stories for my little brother, and all these years later, he still remembers them. So maybe this was always part of the plan. I just didn’t know it yet.
Over time, I’ve learned that stories aren’t just found in books—they’re woven into paintings, conversations, and everyday moments. That’s why I believe people don’t just buy art—they buy the story behind it. They buy a feeling, a moment, a memory. I encourage the artists I mentor to share what makes their piece special, because the right story doesn’t just sell a painting—it creates a connection.
The Art of Island Life (My Blog + Column)
The Art of Island Life is a blog where I share my reflections—a personal storytelling space filled with essays, artist spotlights, behind-the-scenes moments, and inspiration drawn from the rhythms of coastal living and creative community.
Each week, a version of my stories appears in The Island Moon Newspaper, but the blog is where they begin—often in their full form, complete with extra photos, videos, and the occasional full recipe— from my family favorites, and added thoughts you won’t find in print. It’s a space I’ve created to share freely, connect more deeply, and celebrate the beauty found in both art and island life.
Read the latest stories here: melissamitchellart.com/blog.
As an Artist
Much of my art is inspired by the ever-changing beauty of the coast—its stillness, movement, resilience, and light. I work in acrylic, watercolor, and mixed media, often layering natural textures to evoke a sense of serenity and transformation. My pieces are a reflection of the world around me and the quiet, powerful stories we often overlook.
You can find my work at Padre Island Art Gallery, where I also serve as Gallerist and manage a vibrant community of nearly 100 artists. This role allows me to do what I love most: uplift others through art, storytelling, and connection.
In addition to my fine art, I’m also passionate about helping fellow business owners develop visual identities that bring their brands — and their visions — to life.
As a Mentor and Educator
After years of working in business development, healthcare marketing, and brand strategy, I merged that experience with my creative life to help artists thrive. I’m the founder of Melissa Mitchell Art & Design and the creator of The Art of Selling: A Business Guide for Artists.
This online course series was built to demystify the business side of art and give creative entrepreneurs the tools they need to grow sustainable, fulfilling careers. From pricing and marketing to licensing and gallery relationships, I provide practical insights that empower artists to step confidently into their work.
A Few Things You Might Not Know
Before entering the art world full-time, I spent two decades in healthcare marketing and business development. In 2009, I launched a successful dog daycare business—Prancing Paws Doggie Daycare, which I still own today. I’m a mom of four grown kids, a proud grandmother and someone who believes that beauty is often found in the small moments—a paint-splattered studio floor, a handwritten recipe, or a heartfelt story shared over coffee.
I believe in reinvention, grace, laughter, and the idea that art should be shared and celebrated. You’ll find all of that—and more—woven throughout everything I create.
Recent Features & Media
• Cover story in Island Living Magazine (August 2025 edition – Padre Island and Port Aransas)
• Ongoing columnist for The Island Moon Newspaper (39,000+ social media followers, 10,000 print circulation)
• Padre Island Art Gallery named as one of the Top 5 art galleries in the Coastal Bend for Arts, Culture, and Entertainment 2025 by The Bend Magazine (73,000+ readership)
• Featured on the CoCo's Corner podcast (19,000+ followers) 2025
• Interview and televised gallery tour with Coastal Living TV (KRIS6 TV, NBC affiliate) 2025
• Interview by Corpus Christi Caller-Times Newspaper 2025
Let’s Connect:
Facebook & Instagram: @melissamitchellart, @padreislandartgallery, @prancingpawstxk