What is Mesa?
Mesa (pronounced like Lisa with an “M”) is me, Melissa Matarese, owner of the Mesa Lifestyle. I believe that being an artist is a way of life. My services and values are a holistic approach to living a soul-centric, sustainable existance. I am an example and a reminder that there is a way of living beyond societal-norms where we can live a wildly creative, joyous life in right relationship with nature.
Evoking Joy & Inspiring Change
My Past
I used to be a super intense, highly competitive individual that lived by the “no pain, no gain” mentality. I did not listen to my body, I was a fierce protector and I did not know rest without sleeping. I believed that emotions were weakness and boundaries were selfish. I was convinced I was so easy-going that I had no needs, so in turn I continuously tended everyone else’s. I thought true love was about taking on responsibilities that where not mine to ease other’s suffering. Needless to say, I had a lot to learn…
My Journey
2006 was a year of great personal suffering and even greater personal growth. It began with two deaths in my family, followed by emotional heartbreak, the beginning of a long journey with ulcerative colitis and a skateboarding accident that led me to two reconstructive knee surgeries and unable to walk for six months. While recovering I began the journey into my inner wilderness. I was forced to slow down, befriend my mind, and feel my feeling. In the few years that followed I started listening more to that little voice within and living this life from a more soul-centric perspective. I made some bold choices that prioritized my joy and emphasized my individuality. I quit my job as a graphic designer to give more time to creating art, studying Yoga and practicing sustainable living. I moved out of the city to be closer to nature. I got out of a toxic relationship to empowered myself as an independent being. One choice influenced the next and gradually my health improved, my emotional spectrum grew and I felt a deeper sense of genuine connection.
My Present
Fast forward to today, I am healthy and thriving living in MINIMUS, my off-grid, tiny house on wheels, that I built in 2017 with the support of my family, friends and community. I spend half the year in Bucks County, PA creating art, teaching Yoga, practicing sustainable living and spending time with my loved ones. The other half of the year I spend exploring this magnificent planet and learning from Mama Nature and fellow artists and Earth-stewards. My life is one big glorious adventure and I wouldn't want it any other way!
Adventure Photography Gallery
