Bio

Melina Cossío is a Mexican-born visual artist based in Canada. Originally from Tapachula, Chiapas, she has traveled extensively to study and refine her craft in stained glass and oil painting. Her work explores the relationship between nature and human-made environments, capturing the balance between organic beauty and urban life. Initially drawn to the tranquility of nature, her artistic curiosity expanded to the energy and complexity of cityscapes. Having lived in multiple countries, she has absorbed diverse cultures, shifting seasons, and architectural contrasts—each shaping her artistic expression.

Urban environments, in particular, hold a deep fascination for Cossío. They provide both a sense of belonging and a reminder of distance from her roots. Elements such as roads, railways, and power lines —often overlooked—have become symbols of continuity and change. Her paintings depict these spaces not just as physical locations but as emotional landscapes, conveying themes of movement, adaptation, and nostalgia.

At the heart of her work is an exploration of time’s fleeting nature and the uncertainties of the future. She is particularly drawn to the transformative effects of weather and light—the glow of sunlight, the intimacy of rain, and the mystery of misty horizons. These atmospheric elements evoke emotions that transcend cultural and personal boundaries, fostering a shared human experience.

While she has experimented with various mediums, oil painting remains her preferred choice. Its versatility allows her to build depth through glazing techniques and gestural brushwork, striking a balance between realism and abstraction. Her compositions are intentionally open-ended, inviting viewers to form their own connections and interpretations.

Through her art, Cossío creates spaces for contemplation—where emotions surface, memories unfold, and a sense of familiarity emerges. Each painting serves as an invitation to pause, reflect, and connect.

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Education

Artistic Training

2007 - 2014 Chile

Melina pursued advanced studies in oil painting and carbon drawing under the direct guidance of Martin Soria (Martin Soria Academy) and she honed her portrait and figure drawing skills.
During her preparation, Melina had the opportunity to showcase her work among fellow artists, which led her to complete portraits commissions.

Concurrently, Melina expanded her artistic repertoire by acquiring metal welding skills which she effectively integrated into her stained glass creations.

2004 - 2007 Finland. 

She took several workshops and gained specialization in contemporary stained glass, acrylics, pastels and oil paintings at the Ylöjärvi Institute Fine Arts (Ylöjärven Työväenopisto). During this time of learning, she had the fortune to work with prestigious Finnish artist Tuula Lehtinen, creating a grand mosaic art installation in Tampere Pikkupalatsi using ceramic and Murano glass and helping artist Matti Kuronen in the environmental art project ympäristötaideteos "Keinutori".

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Administrative training and experiences

2003-2004 Finnish language at Onnenkieli Language School

1996 - 2000 Bachelor in Business administration at the Autonomous University of Guadalajara (UAG). 

2000-2003 Banorte ,Mexico. Customer service representative

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Artistic professional associations

Since 2014, Melina has been residing and creating art in Mississauga, Ontario. Canada, where she is an active member of Visual Arts Mississauga, Muskoka Arts and Crafts, Artists’ Network , Mississauga Arts Council and Sauga Arts HUB

She is also an active participant in art groups, such as @Saugapleinairgroup and participates in summer workshops to support art groups to enrich the community through art.

In addition to her artistic pursuits, Melina is active on social media, where she enjoys supporting diverse artists and showcasing her artwork. She also takes on oil painting portraits commissions and continues developing her artistic skills.

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Art exhibitions

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Artistic awards and recognitions

Melina's artistic achievements include winning a bronze award at Camelback Gallery and the People's Choice Award at The Beauty of the Bees Exhibit, juried exhibition organized by the Mississauga Arts Council.

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Language skills

Spanish: Native English: Fluent Finnish: Fluent.

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Social media and Contact

www.melinacossio.com

https://www.instagram.com/melinacossio_artist

https://www.facebook.com/melina.cossio.35

https://www.martyshub.com/melinacossio

www.helloart.com

www.bookanartist.co

Email: [email protected]

Mississauga, Ontario. Canada