MEET THE ARTIST

Arielle Mathis

Arielle Rhenae Mathis is a multidisciplinary dance and visual artist, muralist, illustrator, and dance fitness instructor whose work is rooted in movement, storytelling, and community connection. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performance and Choreography from Texas State University and currently works with the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, where she leads art programs for youth.

Deeply influenced by shared experiences and cultural expression, Arielle’s creative practice spans illustration, murals, and movement-based art. She is the visual artist behind Made of Melanin & Magic, bringing the book’s characters, scenes, and visual world to life through original illustrations that celebrate Black joy, imagination, and creativity. Through her work, Arielle continues to explore new inspirations while using art and movement as tools to motivate, educate, and uplift.

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