Conversations with Kathy Meland

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathy Meland.

Hi Kathy, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a social worker by trade. I worked for 40 years in child welfare. I kept my soul sane by delving into the art world as often as I could.

One evening, I think it was a Tuesday, I decided that after many weeks of very long work hours, I was going to take a much-needed break. I lived in eclectic East Nashville so I went to Mad Donna’s where I was sure to meet some fun people. That night would open up so many doors for me and send me down a new path. I met one person that night who then connected me with so many people involved in the Nashville arts; Michael McBride, James Threalkill, Derell Stinson, and Betty Badd just to name a few.

Living in Nashville is inspiring! I was so inspired that I decided to open my studio in “The Building”. At that the time it was managed by Anthony Billups. There were so many young and talented artists from that scene who are well known in and out of Nashville today It was there where I first represented artists.

The second studio that I launched “Boheme Collectif”, was a joint venture with Sabrina Langlois. It was a performance and event venue. We had a very liberal definition of art. It was a time of growth and freedom.

My husband and I spent the last 10 years working and traveling the globe. During our travels, I met so many great humans. In 2021 I retired from child welfare. Now I pursue my passion full-time – the arts and connecting artists. I have always had an eye for talent and a soul for style. In my business, representing artists, I get to connect both. It joins my love for art in all forms with my skill for making and keeping connections. Think about it for a minute, isn’t that how we have gotten this far in any of our lives? Our connections.

“My Why”? Exposure for artists, to broaden their influence and to spread joy. Art makes people smile. This sounds very simple, but isn’t it the simple things that bring us joy? ​

One of my clients is a phenomenal fashion designer from California whose fashion art label was founded in 2014 in San Francisco. Her designs are one of a kind, bold and recognizable, and bursting with detail, with an emphasis on quality. All materials are sustainably sourced and production is in an eco-friendly environment. I am sure there are more than a few Nashville stylists that would love to work with my client to create a unique look for their own customers! I am bringing this artist to you who is pushing the limit. This is something you need to see and experience. This is perfect for Nashville and I have more in my pocket. This is just one!

There is something to be said about the person-to-person connection. I bring my artist’s work directly to the customer. They can feel the product, look at it in person, get a better idea of the goods and ask questions. I also bring the artists into the fold to personally meet the buyers.

That Tuesday night at Mad Donna’s just nailed it for me. If you are an artist, stylist, buyer, or customer or you know of someone that would benefit from my services, please DM or drop me an email. I would love to talk to you.

In the meantime, find some art to admire and smile!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of my biggest challenges is finding the right artist to represent.

On the flip side, in order for me to keep bringing new artists in, unique outlets are necessary. Of course, meeting new contacts, stylists, and buyers whose clients have bold individual styles is exciting and always welcome! It would definitely help the business grow. As with any new endeavor, it is always a challenge to grow.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
I learned the value of person-to-person connection. I can only speak for myself, but there was a void in communication and a real connection during that time. Social media can only give you so much perspective.

As a society, we have a new vulnerability. We have seen how fragile things can be.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @artistrep.kbm
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone Number: 727-410-4906

Image Credits
Kelly Todd and Ron Tomassini