THE BUSINESS OF ART

ART NEWS, ARTIST PROFILES, INTERVIEWS AND MUCH, MUCH MORE.

Melissa came to Los Angeles after college with aspirations of becoming an actress. Steve had just finished his rigorous training to become a plastic surgeon and was starting his practice. It was a magical series of events that led Melissa and Steve to meet. One of Dr. Ip's employees became pregnant, and to ensure she could keep her position, she recommended a friend whose roommate was available. This happened to be Melissa. She had just arrived in Los Angeles and was working multiple jobs to secure enough vouchers to become a member of the Screen Actors Guild.When Dr. Ip met Melissa, he instantly noticed that she was not only beautiful but also had a great sense of humor and a huge heart. 

That marked the beginning of their love story. Melissa and Steve started dating and shared multiple fun experiences together. Melissa also joined Dr. Ip in multiple charitable medical and dog rescue events.

When they both realized they were better together than apart, they got married. The proposal took place at the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Since then, they have expanded to a bicoastal presence, developing a bicoastal plastic surgery practice in Newport Beach, Beverly Hills, and NYC. Meanwhile, Melissa pursued her various passion projects and volunteering/charity work. Melissa has several film projects coming up next year and has kept busy hosting and modeling in fashion shows in LA and NYC. Melissa feels most herself when dancing and volunteering at her church, while Steve is beautifying his East and West Coast patients. His passion for doctoring is evident in his amazing transformations, reflecting his patients' inner beauty.

Melissa and Steve share their life with their poodle Sammy, enjoying hikes and endless patio dining with their fur baby. 

You can follow them on their instagram 

@Doctor.Ip and @iammelissalocke  

To Give is to Receive.      

Melissa and Steve

EMBRACING HARMONY THE ARTISTIC JOURNEY OF

ELLEN AND BRIAN KUTZA 

Growing up on an island surrounded by natural patterns and events sparked my deep connection to the world's intricate design. My artistic journey began with my grandmother's oil painting lessons and evolved into explorations of aerospace, architecture, and interactive installations that questioned our place in the universe. Years later, I met Ellen, a master painter with a unique style, and we connected on a soul level. Our artistic collaboration became an extension of our love, sharing a philosophy of trusting ourselves to create authentically. Ellen, a vibrant artist from St. Louis, Missouri, discovered her passion for painting at ten, inspired by her grandmother's oil painting. Her artistic journey evolved through formal training, studying with renowned artists, and exploring various mediums. In 2004, she embraced the fusion artist movement, shifting from watercolors to acrylics and infusing her work with spiritual energy. We met in 2008 at a global sound healing conference, where Ellen, a Certified Biofeed-back Specialist, was immediately drawn to my energy. Our magnetic attraction led to a deep connection, with me professing my love six months later. As artists, we share values of channeling energy and allowing our art to unfold naturally. Our shared studio space is a sanctuary where we inspire and nurture each other's growth. Traveling has broadened our perspectives, immersing us in diverse environments and cultures. A recent trip to Norway for a royal wedding was a testament to love transcending all. We envision growing together, collaborating on international projects that inspire others to trust themselves and embrace their soulful truths. We support each other during creative blocks, encouraging breaks and exploration to maintain balance and inspiration. To ensure our unique styles shine, we celebrate our individuality and express gratitude for each other's performances. 

As we grow together, I envision creating larger sculptures and installations, while Ellen continues to channel light language and divine codes through her paintings. Our unique styles flourish in our shared studio space, inspiring each other without influencing our individuality. In our journey, we've learned that art and nature are harmonious expressions of the universe. By embracing this harmony, we continue to create, inspire, and love, unfolding our unique performances for the world to experience. Our love and art are intertwined, a dance of creativity and passion. We trust the universe to guide us, and our art becomes a reflection of our souls. As we explore new horizons, our bond grows stronger, a testament to the power of love and art. In this harmonious union, we find our true selves, and our art becomes a gift to the world.

Learn more at: www.BrianKutza.com | www.EllensGallery.com

In Private collection

Tranquility :by Ellen Stern Kutza Acrylic on Canvas 16"x20"

396 Taking Form : by Brian Kutza 24k Gold, Carbon + Acrylic on Plywod 48"x30"x3"

Destiny :by Ellen Stern Kutza Acrylic on Canvas 36"x36"

In The Garden : by Brian Kutza 24k Gold, Carbon, Lapis on Wood 90"x 33"

A love story fueled by the power of biocrystals revolves around Phil Paul, a renowned builder who has successfully constructed and renovated numerous celebrity residences. Among his notable projects are President Reagan's Bel Air residence, Hugh Hefner's Playboy mansion, music superstar Rod Stewart's abode, as well as homes belonging to Julie Andrews, Glenn Larson of Battle Star Galactica, Larry Hagman, and the TV shows I Dream of Jeannie and Dallas. 

In 2017, Phil's ex-wife tragically passed away, leaving him feeling lonely and despondent. However, in June 2021, fate intervened when Phil came across a beautiful woman promoting the biocrystal products of SleepM on WeChat. Intrigued, he visited the exhibition center where she was showcasing the pillows, mattresses, and eye masks. Upon their second meeting, Phil was so smitten that he proposed to her. Just two months later, they tied the knot in Las Vegas, and their love story continues to unfold.

SleepM's biocrystal energy has the incredible ability to activate human cells, enhance microcirculation, and facilitate deep sleep. The product range includes latex pillows starting at $295, organic cashmere crystal mattresses priced at $9,350, and a variety of other bedding options. If you are interested in improving your sleep quality or becoming a dealer, you can visit sleepm.com and schedule a mattress trial. Alternatively, you can reach out to Phil Paul at 310-498-2288 or Crystal Lin Paul at 626-341-1111.