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Oil Mixed Media

Melissa Marquardt

New to ENCORE 2024!

About The Artist

I have always leaned towards being a creative. I am a self-taught artist who, only recently, started taking workshops and classes to expand my knowledge of techniques and processes. In the mid 1990s, I painted residential murals and faux finishes. In 2002, I put the brushes down and worked almost exclusively as a freelance graphic designer allowing myself to spend more time at home raising two children with my husband Brett. My focus in design was corporate identity, event branding and illustration in the fashion industry. In 2016, I picked the brushes back up and have been creating contemporary abstracts that have been very well received by collectors all over the United States and abroad.

New For Encore 2024


My work focuses on organic abstracts, as well as abstracted waterscapes and landscapes, drawing inspiration from the diverse natural beauty of California. Rather than depicting specific locations, I allow the paint to guide the creation of each piece, inviting viewers to connect with their own memories or imaginations. I strive to craft works that are visually intricate yet smooth to the touch, building up layers and then carefully removing them to reveal the history embedded within each unique piece. My materials include acrylic, ink, dry pigments, oil, and cold wax medium, among others, all chosen to enhance the depth and texture of my art.

*Single Day and Multi Day passes available.

  • Feb 27, 2025, 10:00 AM – Mar 02, 2025, 5:00 PM
    La Quinta, Civic Center, La Quinta, CA 92253, USA
    February 27, 2025 – March 2, 2025 | 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM Daily La Quinta Civic Center, 78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA 92253, USA Artist Applications Open August 1 and close October 6, 2024 Register your contact details and we'll get in touch when tickets are available for sale.
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