Melissa Sutherland Moss

Melissa Sutherland Moss (b. 1987) is an interdisciplinary artist from Brooklyn, NY who works with a range of mediums including collage, assemblage, installation, and social engagement. Her work explores the intersecting complexities of black and brown identities. She uses contemporary media as a significant tool to bring these narratives to the forefront of cultural discourse.

Melissa's current practice, deeply rooted in the preservation of the rich histories of African and Caribbean diasporas, has been recognized and exhibited at The Biggs Museum of American Art. Furthering her commitment to these narratives, her work has also been nurtured and elevated through numerous residencies such as ArtCrawl Harlem, Chrysalis Institute for Emerging Artists, The Alliance of Artist Communities, and the Zea Mays Printmaking mentorship program. Various publications, including Black Enterprise, Forbes, Essence, Modern Luxury, and Refinery 29, have featured her work. She is currently pursuing her MFA at the Maryland Institute College of Art and divides her time between Brooklyn, NY, and Baltimore, MD.

As an artist, I am driven by the desire to explore and illuminate the complex narratives of identity, heritage, and cultural memory. My interdisciplinary approach encompasses essays, poems, film, collage, sculpture, and installation, allowing me to engage with these themes through multiple lenses and mediums. Each piece is a reflection of my journey to understand and connect with my Afro-Latina and Costa Rican roots, as well as the broader historical and cultural contexts that shape my identity. My work is deeply informed by research and community engagement. I believe that art should not only be a personal expression but also a dialogue with the past and present. By delving into historical archives, conducting interviews, and participating in community discussions, I strive to create pieces that are both authentic and resonant. This process ensures that my work is not just a reflection of my own experiences but also a tapestry woven with the stories and perspectives of those around me.

New York

United States