Melissa Diaz

Melissa Diaz is an artist and a licensed, registered, board certified art therapist. She holds a BFA in Painting from The University of Central Florida and an MPS in Art Therapy & Creativity Development from Pratt Institute. In 2010, Diaz founded, Open House BK, a community arts initiative that provides free/affordable pop-up art events, exhibitions and therapeutic arts workshops. As a Creative Arts Therapist, Diaz has experience utilizing art therapy and mindfulness practices with adults, children and families. Currently, she holds positions as Assistant Director for a Personalized Recovery Oriented Services program and Visiting Instructor at Pratt Institute. Diaz has presented widely on the topic of art therapy application, at several institutions, including, Pratt Institute, University of Central Florida, University of Wisconsin and Blick Art Materials. In her artwork, Diaz creates interactive installation art as a source of community engagement. She has exhibited throughout NYC and nationally, in both gallery and alternative spaces.

BFA Painting, University of Central Florida
MPS, Art Therapy and Creativity Development, Pratt Institute