“Art and love are the same thing: It’s the process of seeing yourself in things that are not you.”

Chuck Klosterman

“The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.”

Aristotle

I started out in this world making art. From a young age it was clear that I had a talent for drawing and I was lucky enough to have immense support from my family in exploring and developing my skills. I had the honor of being accepted to the local arts high school, Perpich Center for Arts Education, where I was challenged in creativity, professionalism, and presentation and was able to get my art into competitive exhibits, received awards, and even won a grant for my senior project. In 2015 I started my art business and discovered that it takes a lot more than just talent to be a professional artist. All these experiences have taught me that success is about so much more than awards and accomplishments. Success is doing small things now, no matter how much or how little I’ve accomplished, that keep me moving forward toward that life’s intention… to be a successful Artist.

What started out as a hobby has turned into one of my greatest teachers. Climbing challenges me every day to be brave in the face of my fears and shows me what those fears might have held me back from accomplishing. Every time I get off the ground that voice of fear turns on in my head telling me I will probably fall so why bother trying… and guess what, I do fall. Over and over again. So, why do I bother trying? If I didn’t I would never have climbed in Yosemite, seen a swarm of butterflies flutter out of a climbing hold half way up a climb, or looked out over the Rocky Mountains from the top of a rock face in awe of the beauty of the world. If I stopped every time I thought I might fall I would never have gotten off the ground in the first place. Climbing isn’t about never falling. For me, it’s about learning and growth. Every time I fall, I learn how to do better next time. Every time I overcome my fear I see what I am truly capable of. The art I create out of my passion for climbing reflects the strength, courage, connection, and growth it has created in my life.

I came across Coaching when I attended the Foundations Course of The Academy For Coaching Excellence. I took the course to further my personal development and growth, and I ended up discovering my life’s path and purpose. I started my Life Coaching business, Melinda Rondano Coaching, in 2019 and have been continuing to learn and grow in this new endeavor ever since. I delight in supporting people to see who they really are, how incredible they are, and what’s really important to them, then put that knowledge to good use making meaningful change in their lives so that they can live a life they are proud of and make the contribution they are here to make. It warms my heart to be able to make a real difference in people’s lives and create positive change in the world one person at a time.

The Art Academy

2004 - 2010

The Art Academy provides excellent traditional art education for beginning and advanced children, teens and adults. This is where I learned the basics of technique, color mixing, and composition as well as the value of practice and patience.

http://theartacademy.net/

Perpich Center For Arts Education

2011-2013

Perpich helped me develop and integrate my artistic abilities to my highest potential. This two-year arts high school played a huge roll in my growth as an artist. 

http://perpich.mn.gov/

Commissions

I love the relationship and connection created with commissions. Whether it’s a gift for a loved one or to commemorate a person or a moment that was special, I delight in creating artwork that reflects the nuanced experience of being human and loving other beings.