Melissa Chandon considers her work documentary in nature. I like to focus on vanishing icons that have created a since of place through which we have memories, says Chandon. I've gathered my vision of Americana from across the country. …I've now settled back in the Central Valley with the hope that sharing my view of the American landscape may help to bring about a conscious effort to preserve the shared heritage of our recent past. For the past year, Chandon has been painting on sustainably grown birch panel and organic cotton canvas. I feel as an artist I have a responsibility to be a voice so that individuals can think about sustainability, social and environmental, says Chandon. Recently, I have been thinking about the opportunities that exist in a changing economy. We have the ability of seeing the possibilities of change in new and creative ways. I think there is a bit of inventor in all of us.

Born as a child of the 50s, Chandon says road trips were her parents' passion. They saw the American landscape as a means of educating their five children, says Chandon. To this day, I find roadside culture fascinating motels, amusements, neon signs and I feel it is important to document this era of U.S. history before it disappears.

Her show in Santa Fe: Selby Fleetwood Gallery 600 Canyon Road Santa Fe, New Mexico June 12th opening reception 5 to 7 pm