Man About Town and fine art photographer Nick Mele dishes on his latest projects and everything Palm Beach.
Nick Mele is partnering with Brunschwig & Fils for their new La Menagerie Collection.
Known for his whimsical take on high design and American luxury, fine art photographer Nick Mele (nickmelefineart.com) knows a thing or two about the illustrious Palm Beach lifestyle. Mele’s imagery feels like a fanciful peek into the lives of those who live behind the hedges. These glimpses captured in a moment in time evoke a combination of old-world glamour and modern irreverence. We caught up with the artist to find out about his latest endeavors and his new collab with Brunschwig & Fils.
How did you get into fine art photography and how have you seen your art transform over the years?
For years, I have focused on building my commercial photography business. I have been lucky enough to work with some amazing fashion brands and talented interior designers. I have had two books published of my work and have always enjoyed documenting the world around me. However, I only recently decided to put my effort into creating fine art. By fine art, I mean photography that people would want to buy to put on their walls as decor. It took me a very long time to figure out what I wanted to say, and to present it in a way that felt unique and noteworthy. I want my work to be timeless, fun and distinctly me. So much of the work goes into creating pictures that speak to my sense of humor, my love of tradition and history, as well as the places (like Palm Beach) for which I have a great deal of reverence.
To unveil the collection, interior designer Danielle Rollins (and longtime friend of Nick’s) has re-designed a number of rooms in Nick’s home in Palm Beach using the new ‘La Menagerie’ collection.
What is it about Palm Beach that inspires your work?
Palm Beach is a town with a rich history. It’s a town of characters. The people and places all have a story to tell and there is an aesthetic and vibe that is uniquely its own. I grew up being taught to appreciate eccentricity, and Palm Beach is full of it. On top of all that, it is visually stunning, both in its public areas and in its hidden gems that not everyone gets to see.
Tell us about your partnership with Brunschwig & Fils and why you’re excited about it.
The partnership really began when our designer, Danielle Rollins, connected us with Brunschwig & Fils, and they conveyed their desire to launch their new ‘La Menagerie’ Collection of fabrics and wallpapers in a fun and unique way. Over the years, I have become known for my tongue-in-cheek, whimsical portraits of people (especially my family) in fabulously decorated spaces. The new collection was so colorful and full of life that I knew immediately that it spoke to our family’s aesthetic. I love lots of patterns and maximalist decor, and I jumped at the opportunity to turn my house into the backdrop for a series of playful family photos. It was also the perfect opportunity to hire my own menagerie of animals to fill the space and go way over the top.
What inspired you to launch a trade program for Nick Mele Fine Art?
Traditionally, the only real outlet for artists to sell their work was through galleries that can take up to fifty percent commission on sales. However, with social media, more and more artists are selling their work directly to consumers. It’s a lot easier to get your work seen and communicate directly with potential collectors. Since starting the fine art side of my business two years ago, I have had the amazing opportunity to show my work all over the country at different private clubs and retail outlets, including Bergdorf Goodman in New York. I have quickly developed a strong following, especially within the interior designer community. I have a great deal of respect for interior designers and their talents, so it made perfect sense to work directly with them through my trade program. My favorite part is seeing how my photos come together within the greater scheme of their designs.
What are you looking forward to in the future for your work?
I want to continue flexing my creative muscles and trying to take pictures that may one day be considered iconic. I want to continue documenting the world around me in my own unique way and hopefully, I can leave a legacy that lasts long after I am gone. I’m looking forward to a long career and a body of work that I can reflect on and be proud of. At the end of the day, I want people to be able to look at one of my photos and say, “That looks like a Nick Mele photo. I love his work.”
Photography by: Nick Mele
