Melissa Lee
Community Spotlight
Tell us about your art background! What kinds of art did you practice before arriving at the BAC?
I'm Melissa Lee, and I want to give you a glimpse into my journey. Cooking Beautifullee is more than a brand; it's my culinary canvas, where I paint with flavors, experiences, and stories. My adventure began in Taiwan, where I wore the hat of a food writer. It was there that I started sowing the seeds of my culinary passion.
My path led me to work alongside culinary luminaries such as Ming Tsai and Joanne Chang, enriching my skills and allowing me to soak in the remarkable stories of the culinary world. I'm not just a chef; I'm also a storyteller and an educator. Each class I teach, video I create, and word I write is infused with my love for food and my excitement for diverse cultures.
My work represents a fusion of my Asian heritage, my deep connection to New England, and my unwavering love for the culinary arts. It's all about bringing joy, positivity, and inspiration to fellow food lovers and those on the lookout for culinary adventures.
Before becoming a part of BAC, my life revolved around the practice of culinary arts, turning my passion into a way of life.
How does your background in culinary arts influence your visual art?
As a chef, plating is an art form where I pay meticulous attention to detail. Each dish I create is not just about taste but also about the narrative it carries. My mood often plays a pivotal role in this creative process. For instance, when I'm feeling mischievous, I might conceal a spicy element within a dessert, leaving guests delightfully surprised. Conversely, on a brighter day, I may drop a subtle hint, like a small pepper garnish, allowing guests to anticipate a mild kick.
Ceramic art, on the other hand, is an entirely different canvas. With ceramics, my goal is to craft pieces that narrate unique stories and create a captivating visual journey. While my culinary creations invite guests to savor flavors, my ceramic art encourages people to think, engage, and even touch, all while ensuring my pieces remain intact.
How did you arrive at the BAC, what drew you to our visual arts center?
I decided to enroll at BAC primarily because I found the class offerings to be incredibly intriguing. I have fond memories of working with ceramics during my childhood, and the thought of rekindling that passion excited me. The staff at BAC played a significant role in my decision. Their assistance throughout the inquiry process was exceptional.
Another aspect I appreciate is the convenient location. Being able to enjoy a rewarding class and then easily access a delightful lunch spot nearby is simply wonderful!
What class did you take at the BAC, and what was your favorite part about it?
I enrolled in the ceramic wheeling class at BAC, and I must say, my experience with my instructor, Robbie, was absolutely fantastic. I developed a deep appreciation for his teaching style and how he encouraged our creative freedom. He allowed us to choose our projects, and for me, that meant working on nature-themed tableware like chopstick holders.
Robbie guided me through the entire creative process, providing invaluable tools and insights that helped me turn my vision into a reality.
What are some new things or techniques you learned during your time at the BAC?
One of the most valuable lessons I've learned during this course is the significance of post-production activities after shaping the clay. This includes the intricate processes of trimming, glazing, and even the art of repairing broken pieces. My previous experiences with one-time classes never exposed me to the depth of possibilities that emerge once the clay is initially molded.
What would you say to someone who is considering taking a class at the BAC?
I believe that enrolling in a BAC class has allowed us to tap into our creativity, which, in turn, can positively impact our performance at work. In my case, I find it essential to have a creative outlet purely for enjoyment, free from the constraints of grading or evaluation.
How would you define the word βArtβ? What does it mean to you?
I see art as the embodiment of memories, a tangible reflection of who we were at the moment we brought that piece to life.
