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Melissa (Mel)
Jane
Kennelly

Artist,

Textile Conservator + Historian

Phone 978-697-9723

Email melissa.j.kennelly@gmail.com
LinkedIn  Behance

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about

ABOUT

Melissa (Mel) Kennelly is a dedicated and creative individual committed to cultivating conversations around "domestic" and "women's" artwork. She grew up in Sudbury, MA spending most of her time outside, dancing or on a sewing machine. Her infatuation for crafting came from the women in her family and their fine skills. 

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resumé

SKILLS & EXPERTISE

  • History and creation of various "domestic" fiber arts          i.e. quilting, lace making, weaving, knitting and crocheting.

  • Skilled fine tailoring and repairing of objects and garments.

  • Understanding of fabric performance and testing

  • Conservation of historical textiles 

  • A good understanding of Graphic Design

  • Has the ability to design products using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.

  • Organized, friendly, and team-oriented!

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RELEVENT WORK EXPERIENCE

  • 2021-Present

Collections Assistant

University of Rhode Island

Assists Susie Jerome with day-to-day tasks of caring for the Historic Textile and Costume Collection at the university. Responsibilities include accessioning donations, creating condition reports, and preparing objects for loan or exhibition.

  • 2021-Present

Teaching Assistant

University of Rhode Island

Assists Dr.Goswami with the teaching of a Sustainability and Fashion course. Responsibilities include grading assignments, assisting students with learning, and assisting with research for the course.

  • Summer of 2019

ROXY Footwear Intern

Boardriders, Huntington Beach CA

Assisted a group of amazing shoe designers, fit developers and factory consultants by tech-packing, sample coordinating, and participating in buyers meetings.

  • 2018-2019

Collection Assistant

RISD Historical Picture Collection

Managed an archive of hardcopy historical pictures and assisted students with visual research

  • 2014 - Present 

Freelance Designer and Artist

Self-Employed

From graphic design to garments, if you need it, I'll create it!

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EDUCATION

2021 - present

University of Rhode Island 

Candidate for a Masters in Textile Conservation 

Kingston, RI

2016-2020

Rhode Island School of Design

BFA in Apparel Design 

Providence, RI

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portfolio
contact

CONTACT

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