Melissa Coole’s February exhibition at Heartland Art Center features bold, high-contrast portraits that blur the line between imagination and reality. Set against abstract, colorful backgrounds, her figures feel cinematic and story-driven, inviting viewers to pause and form their own interpretations. Coole’s work explores connection, memory, and emotional complexity, often leaning into darker or mischievous characters that add tension and intrigue.
A closing reception will be held Friday, February 27 from 6 to 8 pm. Meet the artist and enjoy refreshments.
My work is a vivid exploration of the fantastical and the realistic, high-contrast, colorful portraits: low res high def fictive photo realism.
Each piece is a journey into the realm of fantasy, with backgrounds that often lean towards abstraction, allowing the realistic features of the characters to stand out in striking detail.
My inspiration draws from the rich tapestry of human emotions and connections. I am driven to find common ground among people, irrespective of their differences, and to evoke a sense of nostalgia that ties back to my own past where my search for personal connections began.
Themes of villainy are prevalent in my portraits, showcasing a spectrum of emotions that range from intense and dramatic to calm and cool. It is my hope that my art captivates viewers, inviting them to create a story to go with each piece.
For purchase information, call the Heartland Art Center at 574-936-9515 or email us at heartlandartistsgallery@gmail.com
