Melodye RosalesMelodye Rosales is an acclaimed author and illustrator whose work celebrates African American culture, family, and history through stories filled with warmth, humor, and heart. A child of parents who spent their lives in the entertainment industry, te world of imagination came naturally to this biracial artist raised within African American culture. Her creative journey reflects a lifelong devotion to storytelling that honors the beauty and depth of the African diaspora, with ideas and values deeply rooted in American history and identity.After studying art at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and Columbia College, Melodye expanded her horizons by living in Barcelona and traveling extensively throughout Europe and Northern Africa. Her experiences abroad-and as an author/illustrator-in-residence at Jakarta International Schools in Indonesia-further enriched her global perspective and informed her vibrant artistic voice.During her 35 years in publishing, Melodye has balanced her creative work with a strong commitment to community. She has served on boards such as Literacy Chicago, reviewed educational grants for the Illinois Arts Council, and founded the United Foundation for Arts & Technology (UFAT), a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting creative education and innovation. Amid these achievements, she raised a family, with two of her three children now creating families of their own."I continue to live a rich and colorful life," she says, "always viewing that life through the social justice spectrum from which I continually draw creative energy."Her most recent work, 'Twas the Night B'fore Christmas, reimagines Clement C. Moore's cherished poem through the eyes of an African American family in turn-of-the-century North Carolina. With Santy Claus "wit' skin like molasses" and a joyful cry of "Giddy-up, y'all!", Rosales blends the rhythm of Southern storytelling with the magic of Christmas.Through literature, illustration, and historically rooted fine art, Melodye continues to honor traditions, inspire readers of all ages, and give voice to underrepresented narratives. Her creative legacy remains a lasting contribution to the ever-evolving tapestry of American art and culture. Read More Read Less
