Born: 1970
Hometown: Singapore
Based in: Singapore
Armed with a Bachelor of Arts Degree form the National University of Singapore, Melissa Teo made a switch from teaching Art full time in a secondary school to venturing into painting full time. In addition, she does illustration and graphic design on a regular basis. Projects cater to a wide range of subjects both hand and digitally rendered. She still teaches adjunct. She became a member of the Singapore Art Society in 2010 and have since participated in the society's annual group exhibitions. Her works have been shown at the Utterly Art gallery , the Affordable Art Fair and the Art Apart Fair.
Her works may revolve familiar Singapore scenes but her bold and unique style gives a distinctive edge.
What inspires you?
Local street scenes and wildlife
Describe your creative process.
I usually take photos and then conceptualise from there. When I paint, I sometimes paint wothout prior mark marking as I like the spontaneous and unptedictable flow of the paints.
What are 3 words that best describe your work?
Bold...expressive...semi representational
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
Wu Guan Zhong, Li Fu Yuan
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
I use almost anything that makes a mark with paints.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
To keep on creating...
Where do you go for inspiration?
Immerse myself in the scene.