As founder and executive director of Melloe Events, South Side native Roe Melloe has made a name for himself in the arts and entertainment industry as a pivotal leader providing talent management, artist development, professional representation, consultation, and brokering services to artists of all disciplines.
A culture catalyst and creative entrepreneur, Roe received a B.A. in Business Management from Chicago State University. As a curator and creative producer, he has specialized in producing art exhibitions, fashion shows and music events for clients including the University of Chicago, Annie F. Lee Foundation, Comfort Care, Hyatt Regency Chicago and Luster Products, among others.
Some of his major curatorial projects include ACTIVATE Premiere; Chicagorilla Fashion Show; The PHRESH Stage – Wicker Park Fest; This Image Is Not Available In Your Country; Love Notes the EP Release; American Justice: She Ain’t Blind; Connect Hyde Park Fashion Show; Farewell 44 – An Artists Tribute to Barack Obama; and more.
N’DIGO recently sat down with the in-demand curator to find out about his background and his latest ventures.
N’DIGO: Who is Roe Melloe?
Roe Melloe: This is always an interesting question to answer. I have so many layers to myself, but at the core of it all, I’m just a creative individual with complex tendencies who enjoys life and meeting and connecting with people.
How did you gain your appreciation for art?
I gained a tremendous appreciation for art at an early age through dance and theater performance. It wasn’t until college that I started to understand the impact and value of art in all forms. That’s when I decided to pursue a more in-depth journey towards a future designed around my creative gifts.
For those unfamiliar, please tell us about your company, Melloe Events.
Melloe Events is a full-service curation agency that provides unique, artist-centered events for upscale clients, corporations, and celebrities. Our mission is to create specialized events that impact culture through many facets of art.
Obviously, we’re in the midst of an historic time in America. In your own words, how would you describe what’s going on?
In my opinion, what’s happening at the moment feels like a combination of corrective and restorative opportunities to heal and protect the Earth, while shifting the balance of power to a more equitable favor within the American mindset and system.
Can you tell us about your “Feed The People” campaign and the genesis of the idea?
I was inspired to create the movement for the community to “Feed the People” out of pure necessity to help with the temporary shift and stoppage of food supplied to CPS students and their families with the onset of the Covid 19 pandemic.
And with food deserts affecting so many in underserved communities, you wanted to lend a hand?
Exactly. The need was there because a lot of families were dependent on the meals the kids got at school before Covid shut it down. Then the movement grew in concept to assist all people in need due to the closing of many grocery stores on both the South and West sides in the wake of the recent rioting and looting that left many people without nearby food options.
Has the “Feed The People” campaign been successful?
Absolutely! In total, we have passed out over 2,000 bags of groceries in the past two weeks to families in need. Shout out to everyone that has pitched in by donating food or volunteering their time to help keep it going.
What are some of your accomplishments/projects that you are especially proud of?
There are a few things I’m proud of. I’ve been so fortunate and blessed to accomplish so many things. One thing that comes to mind is being able to inspire others through my craft and ability to create safe spaces for unique cultural experiences.
Another accomplishment I’m proud of is the opportunity to curate an amazing pop up exhibit at Twitter’s Chicago headquarters last year. I’m also proud of the mobile art show I curated with creative partner Miss Gem in Miami during Art Basel 2019.
What are three of your personal keys to business?
Be patient and ask questions. Seek guidance and find a mentor. Take risks and eliminate fear.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
People may be surprised to learn that I’m an amazing dancer. I’ve taken ballet, jazz, modern, and other styles/forms of dance in the past.
Best advice to the youth?
You only have one life. Enjoy every moment of it and be impactful.
Favorite quote or affirmation?
“Love is the infinite power to all possibilities.” – Monroe Flowers
What’s next for Roe Melloe?
My next dream and goal is to purchase a space on the South Side of Chicago and center it around all forms of art and technology for underprivileged youths.
For more information on Roe Melloe, visit: via Instagram @ #roemelloe and Facebook: Melloe Events or Roe Melloe.
