PLAYFUL 3D WORLDS INSPIRED BY NOSTALGIA AND NATURE.
Melissa Mathieson is a Montréal-based freelance 3D artist with a BFA from Concordia University. After practicing fine arts for years, she has now immersed herself into a 3D world to give characters and environments extra dimension. This world is inspired by all things whimsical and nostalgic, and much of it takes inspiration from the nature in her hometown on the central coast of California. She dips into a made-up universe consisting of quirky characters, nature elements, and brightly colored cities. Some of her clients include Apple, Microsoft, Google, The New York Times, IKEA, UPS, Time Out, DoorDash, MTV and VICE. Beyond her client work, she has exhibited installations internationally, with showcases in Japan, Hong Kong, Beijing, Toronto, and Montreal bringing her creative vision to audiences across the globe.
What are your core values?
My core values as an artist are authenticity, innovation and connection. I commit to stay true to my vision, to create works that bring sincere joy and spread positivity through my characters and the universe I have built thanks to new technologies. For me, creating a sense of community in the digital age is essential. Through my art, I strive to create a space where people feel seen, understood and inspired.
What does your dream project look like?
Although much of my work is found online, my recent dream projects focus on materializing my creations into the physical world through in-person exhibitions across the globe. There is something truly rewarding about seeing people interact with my characters in a way that digital platforms can’t really replicate.
Describe your work in one sentence.
My work is playful, vibrant and full of energy, creating an immersive experience that is both joyful and stimulating.
Why would you like to be recognized?
I would like my art to be recognized for its ability to bring joy and positivity in a unique and recognizable way. At the same time, I aspire to be known for my innovative approach to new media, such as 3D and augmented reality. I seek to push the limits of creativity and technology to create immersive and dynamic art and experiences.
What impact does your artistic practice have?
My goal is to create art that conveys a sense of community and inspires positivity. I wish that my work encourages viewers to adopt a more optimistic view of life, through hope and enthusiasm. Through exhibitions, installations and social platforms, I seek to bring people together around shared experiences. At the same time, I want to offer an art that allows escape—something purely fun that relieves daily stress. If I can make even one person smile thanks to my art, then I will have accomplished what I set for myself!