Melanie Stimmell

Personal History

After earning an illustration degree from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, Stimmell spent eight years working as a technical director for the popular South Park television series and the theatrical South Park movie. During that same time, she fell in love with street painting and was soon invited to paint at public events around the world.

During her 20 years as a freelance street painter and muralist, she was awarded gold medals and first place awards in Europe’s most prestigious competitions, including the title of Maestra Madonnara (Master Street Painter) in both Italy and Germany.

In 2012, Stimmell and her husband founded We Talk Chalk, a 3D-street painting company in Los Angeles.  Since its inception, her team has created over 900 paintings throughout the world and are now based in Las Vegas where they work with local entertainment venues and conventions. We Talk Chalk’s specialties include 3D trick-eye paintings, murals, and space transformations. Stimmell has created 30 murals in the Northern Neck of Virginia as part of a state-wide small town revitalization program.

In addition to all of her experience as a creative entrepreneur, Stimmell has also been teaching art for over 20 years and loves helping other artists reach their goals.

In her words: “I believe you can create what you love, spread positivity, and inspire beauty in the world.   And… if you’re anything like me, you enjoy spending your free time in a beautiful space full of inspiration that is authentically you.  I love the idea of helping others create their ‘happy place’ and helping artists cultivate a ‘truly inspiring career’ by helping them reach their goals.”

In 2021, Stimmell was one of 10 semi-finalists for Park West Gallery’s inaugural “Made in Vegas” artist search competition. She made her Park West debut at their New Year’s weekend online auction weekend, ringing in 2022 with a completely sold-out show.