Passing of Faculty Member and Alumna Melodee Strong

Dear MCAD Community,

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Melodee Strong, MCAD Illustration alumna (Class of 2006), former faculty member, artist, educator, and beloved member of our community.

Many members of the MCAD community knew Melodee as an inspiring artist, generous collaborator, dedicated educator, and passionate advocate for community-centered art. After graduating from MCAD's Illustration program, she returned to teach as a Visiting Faculty member and Adjunct Instructor serving students in the Illustration program from 2009 to 2014, and a Continuing Education instructor from 2015 to 2020. She was also a valued community partner, collaborating with MCAD on mural projects and arts initiatives.

Beyond MCAD, Melodee was a prolific muralist whose work can be found throughout the Twin Cities. Her art was created with and for the communities she cared about so deeply. Following the murder of George Floyd, she played an important role in creating murals along East Lake Street, helping transform public spaces into places of remembrance, resilience, and healing. Through her artistic practice, she demonstrated the power of art to bring people together and strengthen communities.

An interview with Melodee can be found here: https://www.minneapolisfoundation.org/learning-hub/interview-with-an-artist-melodee-strong/ 

Melodee touched countless lives through her creativity, generosity, and commitment to making art accessible and meaningful. Her impact will continue to be seen in not only the murals and public artworks she leaves behind, but also the students, colleagues, and community members she inspired.

We extend our deepest condolences to her son, Romario, her family, friends, former students, and all who knew and loved her. Melodee's legacy will remain an enduring part of MCAD and the broader Twin Cities arts community. We will keep the MCAD community informed when we hear about plans for a memorial.

With sympathy,
Melissa Rands
Vice President of Academic Affairs