A vibrant addition to the Northwest Arkansas art scene, Melissa Abide Griffith has called this area home for the past eight years. Originally from Chicago, Melissa now lives in Rogers, where she’s embraced the natural beauty of the region and the many trails that are perfect for walking, running, and biking. As an artist, she finds inspiration in nature, especially in how light shifts throughout the day, affecting the landscape and our emotions.

Melissa’s creative process is diverse, working with various mediums like inks, acrylics, oils, and occasionally watercolor and gouache. The interplay of light, color, and emotion is at the heart of her work. "I love how light changes the way we experience the world around us," she explains. "It has such a strong connection to our emotions."

One of the standout moments in Melissa’s career was when she had the opportunity to provide artwork for Jenny and Dave Marrs’ HGTV show, Fixer to Fabulous. Seeing her pieces featured in the beautifully renovated homes on the show has been a rewarding experience, and she takes great joy in knowing how Jenny Marrs incorporates her work into these spectacular designs.

Melissa draws inspiration from various artists, but Henri Matisse holds a special place in her heart. "I loved his use of color and simple shapes to convey movement," she shares. "His work has always stood out to me, and I admire how he captured energy through simplicity."

Like many artists, Melissa acknowledges the challenge of overcoming self-doubt. "It's something all artists face," she says. "And staying true to your vision is key. The art world is full of trends, and with social media, it’s easy to be influenced by what’s popular. But I believe staying authentic to your own work is what truly resonates with people."

Melissa is deeply involved in her local community and has donated her work to several charitable organizations for fundraising efforts. You can also find her art in various local galleries and interior design shops, including Cobblestone & Vine in Bentonville and Abide Furniture in Springdale.

Her ultimate goal is simple but profound: "I just hope they love it every time they look at my work," she says. "I want my art to bring a sense of calm and a little piece of nature into their homes."

To view more of Melissa’s work or to purchase a piece, visit her website at melissaabidegriffithart.com, or follow her on Instagram (@melissaabidegriffithart) and Facebook (Melissa Abide Griffith Art).