Baker Artist Portfolios

Artist Melanie Denise Coburn draws deep inspiration from her upbringing in Baltimore City, with its row homes, community and shared walls. Her artistic journey began with museum visits and art projects led by her mother. Nurtured by her mother’s encouragement of creative exploration, art was an inseparable part of Melanie’s life. Melanie’s continual passion for art led her to the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), where she fully immersed herself in the art world. Starting in 2007, Melanie shares her love for art as a dedicated teacher at Mercy High School, teaching students in grades 9 through 12.
Notable among her cherished childhood memories is the creation of a small pink wooden sculpture crafted while at Leith Walk Elementary School, which was selected for student exhibition displayed at the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA). This pivotal moment, captured in a photograph of her standing proudly beside her creation, instilled a sense of pride and joy in her artistic journey.
Mentorship has played an essential role in Melanie’s development as an artist. Her high school art teacher, Mr. Gomez, and Renate Duncan, a mentor from a private studio where Melanie both took and taught classes, played pivotal roles in her artistic development, offering support and introducing her to painting.
Deeply connected to nature and the traditionally considered women’s crafts of knitting and crocheting, Melanie’s work is a unique blend of watercolor and embroidery. Her plant collection often serves as a wellspring of inspiration, allowing her to explore themes of growth, resilience, and the intricate details of life. She combines her love for needlework with watercolor to create textured, meaningful pieces that resonate with authenticity.
Despite challenges in defining her artistic voice in the contemporary art world, Melanie remains committed to her creative pursuits. She found balance by taking breaks to rejuvenate her artistic spirit, embracing the ebb and flow of her creativity. Melanie’s personal qualities, especially her kindness, permeates her work, fostering a deep connection with her audience and making her not just an artist, but a storyteller.
Beyond the realm of art, Melanie finds solace in reading, caring for her cats, and cherishing moments with family and friends. Her life goals reflect her values—fostering meaningful connections, embracing adventure, promoting well-being, and cultivating personal growth. For Melanie, art is not just a passion; it is a way of life, filled with joy, reflection, and a constant search for authenticity. Her work reflects her personal journey, weaving the tapestry of her life through the language of art.