Local artists launching pop-up gallery at Orillia Square mall

NEWS RELEASE

MARSHMELLOW

*************************

Two friends, Raune-lea Marshall and Deby Melillo, who came together in 2023 to form the local art duo known as MarshMellow, are celebrating a major milestone: the opening of their own pop-up Red Dot Gallery this December.

The pair is known for creating engaging community art events such as the 2024 Summer Twilight Piazza and a Valentine’s Art Show in the Orillia Opera House. Their current exhibit, Northern Perspectives, is on display in the Muskoka Discovery Centre’s art space until the end of November.

They are now thrilled to announce the next step in their creative journey — the grand opening of Red Dot Gallery and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, from 3 to 8 p.m. in the Orillia Square mall.

The gallery will showcase the duo’s latest works and feature invited artists Mike Bailey, Linda Gidora, and Norman Robert Catchpole. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the artists, explore the gallery, and purchase original works — perfect as gifts or as a way to bring beauty into your life.

“Community and creativity are at the heart of what we do,” the duo said. “This gallery is a celebration of local art and the connections that make it thrive.”

The pop-up gallery will remain open throughout December. All are welcome to attend and support Orillia’s growing arts community.

Further Background on MarshMellow

Both artists were members of Orillia Fine Arts Association and Orillia and District Arts Council, where Raune-lea served as president for many years. They are currently on the board of directors of North Simcoe Arts.

They have participated in many Peter Street/Arts District Friday Night Art Walks and Starry Night events.

They produced the MarshMellow & Friends exhibit in the Orillia Opera House in the summer of 2024.

They have organized numerous art shows in the Orillia area, including exhibitions at Westridge Art Café, four semi-annual Art on the Corner shows at the KC Upscale Garage Sale location, and the 2024 Summer Twilight Piazza in the Era 67 courtyard.

Deby has been a mentor in the north Simcoe Arts Immersion program for over a year.

Both artists have been curating the gallery space in the Muskoka Discovery Centre since its inception in early 2024.

*************************