Conch Africa meets London-based artist, Melissa Kramo – who talks about her influences, her hopes for better representation – and much more besides…
Melissa! Tells us about Melissa Kramo Design… when did it all begin?
I have always loved being creative, art is a real passion of mine but I never really had the confidence to put my own work out there until 2020. Many pivotal events happened that year. Seeing those traumatic images of George Floyd’s murder, the BLM movement becoming more prevalent, Covid and lockdowns made me re-evaluate my life in a sense,. It made me think about the images I wanted to see out there, and the under-representation of Black people in general. So, I started working on illustrations that uplifted my culture and were bright, pretty and positive. Putting my first piece of work on Instagram was a hard step to take. I have always had to overcome the feeling of not being ‘good enough’ – and I think that is why it took me so long to get my work out there. I’m glad I did now.
@melissakramodesign
Did you study art & design? Your day job is senior designer on a magazine, isn’t it…
Exactly, I did an A-Level in Art and a degree in Graphic Design. I am a senior designer for a magazine and have worked in the publishing industry for many years. I have had the opportunity to have my work published, which was a great moment for me – to see my work in print in a magazine is a dream I’ve always had!
How would you describe your art prints – what and who tend to inspire your pieces?
I mainly work using black paper, I just find it a really powerful colour – and it makes everything else pop! I hand-draw my designs, and then use paint. I love colour and pattern and find inspiration from African prints and fabric. I love to show black women’s beauty in my work. I love any kinds of bright prints and patterns, I would love to eventually transfer my work on to stationary or home textiles.
@melissakramodesign
When and how do you work best, then?
This may sound weird to some, but I like to work in silence, mostly. I find I can be easily distracted and if I have music on, I will end up dancing around my work rather than actually doing it! (When I do give in by the way, it’s normally some 90s Usher, Beyonce, or a bit of Afrobeats!). I like to be alone and lock myself away for a few hours, which is almost impossible with two kids!
Do your little ones ever want to get involved – are they creative/artistic too?!
Yes, I have an 8 and 5 year old. They both love to see what I’m producing and like to critique it, especially the 8-year-old son! Luckily, it’s mainly positive. My 5-year-old daughter is quite artistic. I noticed how she held a pencil perfectly at a young age, and she really loves to draw. She already has her own distinct style. They have not got involved in my work yet but you know what, that is a good idea! Watch this space.
As someone working in media, particularly, do you feel strongly about diversity and representation?
Oh yes, definitely! There just isn’t enough representation. I can see progress. There are many more publications/brands that are a lot more diverse – but there is a long way to go. It really shouldn’t be an issue in 2023 to have people of different races, religions, abilities and sexuality represented in what we see on TV, hear on radio and read in print.
What’s your experience of this been so far? Do things still need to improve?
I really think there is a lack of diversity in certain industries. There needs to be a way to reach out to people from all areas of society. People that have been overlooked and believed that they couldn’t ‘fit in’ to a certain environment need to know that these industries are for them too. ‘Diversity’ isn’t just about skin colour, but class, too. We all need to be given the same opportunities and to feel accepted in these spaces. Since having children, I have noticed this so much more. I have seen my daughter look through magazines and ask, ‘Mummy, why does no one look like me?’. This is heartbreaking for a parent – but I’m hopeful that things are beginning to change.
@melissakramodesign
Whose artistic output do you love yourself – what’s up on your own walls at home?
Oh, there are SO many artists I love, who vary in styles, I have recently discovered mixed media artist Caroline Chinakwe, her work is just stunning and vibrant and captures black culture beautifully. It’s currently on the walls at the Langham Hotel, in central London. I also like artist Curtis Holder, he won the Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year in 2020. I just love his unique use of colour pencils, it looks like scribble at first, then something amazing appears from it.
The work of Caroline Chinakwe (@carolinechinakwe), above, amongst others, is a source of inspiration for Melissa‘s art
If you could meet any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?
It would have to be Oprah! I just love everything about her. She is a real inspiration and brings so much light and positivity to everyone and everything. She has overcome so much and works tirelessly to help people as well as having a fabulous life herself. Who knows, it may happen one day. I need to manifest!
Besides art and design, what you are passionate about in life…
I’ve recently been asking myself this same question. I am re-evaluating what is really important in life: family, friends… Finding joy in life, whether big or small, that’s my passion, really. Just making the most of life and all the fun experiences and happiness it brings.
For personal commissions and more, follow Melissa on Instagram @melissakramodesign.
