DeAnn Meely
About DeAnn Meely
DeAnn Meely, a distinguished artist based in Decatur, Alabama, captures the ephemeral beauty of the natural world with a blend of realism and atmospheric sensitivity in her evocative acrylic paintings. Her work is deeply rooted in personal experience and observation, reflecting a profound connection to nature that has been nurtured since her childhood in the South. DeAnn's journey as an artist has been shaped by her diverse experiences as a journalist and Army wife, which have taken her across the United States, deepening her appreciation for the land and its wildlife—a connection further enriched by her Native American heritage.
DeAnn's artistic style is characterized by her adept use of light and mood, capturing the delicate interplay between warm and cool tones to create pieces that resonate with emotional depth. Her paintings often begin with hours of careful observation in the wild, where she employs her trusty camera, affectionately named "Big Bertha," to document the intricate details of her subjects. This meticulous fieldwork informs her studio practice, where she creates paintings that are not mere reproductions of nature, but rather emotive narratives that invite viewers to experience the same awe and reverence she felt in those moments.
An active participant in the plein air community, DeAnn's work has been showcased in prestigious exhibitions such as the National Oil and Acrylic Painters' Society (NOAPS) Associate Member Online Exhibition and the River Clay Fine Arts Festival. Her contributions to the art world extend beyond her canvas; she is also a dedicated instructor and mentor, running her own studio and gallery where she shares her passion and expertise with aspiring artists. Her solo exhibitions, including a notable display at Huntsville International Airport, have reached diverse audiences, furthering her mission to connect people with the beauty and spirit of the natural world.
Looking ahead, DeAnn aspires to expand her artistic reach through representation by major galleries and participation in renowned wildlife and landscape expositions. Her long-term vision is to create art that not only captures the visual splendor of nature but also stirs a deep emotional response in viewers, fostering a lasting connection to the wild. As she continues to refine her craft and explore new horizons, DeAnn remains committed to her artistic journey, where each painting is a testament to her dedication to truth and authenticity in art.