In the luminous realm where memory meets mastery, Meliza Ruby Abreu—the visionary force behind By Melrub—emerges as a Dominican-American contemporary multimedia artist whose work transcends canvas and clay to touch the very soul of human experience. With her iconic faceless figure Ella, seen eternally from behind, Abreu invites viewers into an intimate yet universal dialogue of identity, healing, and the quiet poetry of time’s passage, transforming personal remembrance into collective catharsis.
Her journey, forged through the fires of loss—including the profound absence of her grandmother—relocation, and the delicate balancing of family, education, healthcare pursuits, and artistic ambition, has only deepened the resonance and authenticity of her practice. What distinguishes Abreu is not merely her command of painting, sculpture, mixed media, and installation, but her creation of evolving narrative universes through long-term collections like Memoria, Aeterna, and Arcana, where symbolism and lived history converge to preserve what time seeks to erase.
As she prepares for expanded international exhibitions, monumental sculptural works, public art projects, and luxury collaborations, this exclusive interview with TheCelebrity.Online unveils the heart of an artist whose every creation whispers: in healing others, we ultimately heal ourselves.
Here is the Q&A session we had with Meliza.
Meliza Ruby Abreu As Cover Story Interview – July 2026 Magazine Edition
How do you introduce yourself?
My name is Meliza Ruby Abreu, and I am a Dominican-American contemporary multimedia artist working under the name By Melrub. My practice combines painting, sculpture, mixed media, and storytelling to explore memory, identity, healing, and the passage of time. At the heart of my work is Ella, a faceless figure seen from behind who represents both my inner child and a universal reflection of ourselves. Through Ella, I invite viewers to connect with their own memories, emotions, and untold stories.
Struggle – What hardships have you gone through in life?
Football was my identity growing up. When that chapter ended, I felt completely lost. I battled depression, gained over 100 pounds, isolated myself, and convinced myself that my best days were behind me. Looking back, the weight wasn’t the real problem. It was everything I was carrying underneath it. Losing the weight forced me to stop running from adversity and finally face the person in the mirror. Also losing a close friend (Clay Beathard) in December 2019 really changed my perspective on life. It really showed me how much I was lacking purpose and most importantly, Jesus Christ.
What do people usually not know about you?
Many people know my paintings, but they don’t realize that every artwork begins as a personal conversation with myself. They also don’t know that I am pursuing a career in healthcare while continuing to build my artistic practice. I believe both fields share the same purpose: healing. Whether through medicine or art, I want people to leave feeling seen, understood, and hopeful.
What sets you apart from others?
I don’t simply create artworks—I create narratives. Ella is not just a character; she is an evolving visual language that connects painting, sculpture, installation, and memory. My work blends symbolism with personal history, allowing viewers to find their own stories within each piece. I am also developing long-term conceptual collections, including Memoria, Aeterna, and Arcana, which explore how memories shape identity and how art can preserve what time cannot.
What are your upcoming major events?
I’m continuing to expand the By Melrub studio through new exhibitions, public art projects, and live painting experiences. I am also developing larger sculptural works featuring Ella, expanding my collections, and collaborating with luxury and cultural brands. My focus is to continue exhibiting internationally while creating immersive experiences that connect audiences with themes of memory, healing, and identity.
What expert advice would you like to give?
Don’t create art to follow trends—create work that tells the truth about who you are. Consistency is more powerful than perfection. Protect your vision, continue learning, and remember that success is built through patience and discipline. The most meaningful art comes from authenticity, not from trying to impress others.
Your social media handles and website links?
- Instagram & YouTube : @bymelrub
- LinkedIn: Meliza Ruby Abreu
Jose R. Harwood is a the Chief Editor and Author at TheCelebrity.Online and expert in Entertainment Industry working with TheCelebrity.Online Magazine – You can reach Jose R. Harwood via Contact page! – Read more on our About Us page.
