Step into Art Acoustix in downtown South Boston, and you’ll find the walls filled with Melissa Powell’s paintings. You can browse her tastefully sensual abstract art and figure drawings or create your own – Melissa teaches art classes and lessons and arranges on-demand paint nights. She says painting is the perfect activity for a date, a fun night out with friends, or a good choice for quality time with your kids and their friends. Melissa has turned Art Acoustix into a place to unwind and relax, with artwork and in other ways. Step into the meditation room and enjoy the heated massage chair or purchase soaps, incense, and candles. And ask Melissa about yoni steaming.

About Melissa Powell

Melissa Powell, artist and entrepreneur

Melissa is originally from Scottsburg, Virginia. She grew up in a family of farmers – some of the most innovative entrepreneurs! As the oldest child in her family, it was her responsibility to help her grandfather around the farm so she grew up working hard.

After moving away from Southern Virginia to attend Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia she found herself in Baltimore, Maryland, where she owned a daycare – her first entrepreneurial endeavor. From her daycare days, she still carries a special place in her heart for teaching children. As Melissa’s family grew, she felt pulled to move back to Southern Virginia and start her dream business in downtown South Boston.

When Melissa Powell first ran the idea of Art Acoustix past a few family members and friends to see if they thought she should open her own business, she was met with caution and even a few outright “no’s”. Melissa knew she had a good idea no matter what anyone thought. To her, the “no’s” were just confirmation to go ahead and open her store anyway! Four years ago, her dream became reality, and she has been successful with Art Acoustix. So successful, in fact, that in October 2020 she moved from her old location by Bistro 1888 to her current location at 417 Main Street because she needed more space.

2020 – A Year to be Proud of

When asked what she is most proud of, she said “being able to withstand the pandemic.” Melissa says she saw her business increase during 2020 and credits that growth to being innovative, flexible, and refocusing her business plan as often as she needed – sometimes, moment by moment.

In response to the pandemic, she created more retail opportunities and is now selling clothing and accessories like colorful purses and jewelry. She also created “to-go” paint parties. Simply reach out to Melissa with an image of what you want to create, and she will package up all the supplies you need for a paint night in the comfort of your own home! She also debuted her new website which she says has allowed customers to shop from home and has helped her keep orders and shipping organized. The most important thing that is getting her through the pandemic, is “just being open and flexible for clients. People appreciate that.” Melissa credits her flexibility to a part-time job she works in addition to owning Art Acoustix and to her service-minded personality.

Some Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Melissa says that any aspiring entrepreneur needs to embrace the fact that “your plan is not a plan! You have to be open and flexible.” Flexibility helped Art Acoustix flourish this year as Melissa diversified her business and created an online retail space with her new website.

Visit Art Acoustix
You can visit Art Acoustix in person at 417 Main St, South Boston, VA 24592 or visit artacoustix.com.

Thank you to Melissa Powell for sharing Art Acoustix with us!

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