Melissa Auf der Maur

Melissa Gaboriau Auf der Maur, born on March 17, 1972, is a multifaceted Canadian artist celebrated for her work as a musician, singer-songwriter, photographer, and actress. Her musical journey began in 1993 when she co-founded the indie rock band Tinker while studying at Concordia University. In the summer of 1994, she gained prominence as the bassist for the influential American alternative rock group Hole, contributing to notable albums such as the critically acclaimed *Celebrity Skin* (1998). After leaving Hole in 1999, Auf der Maur briefly toured with The Smashing Pumpkins in 2000 before embarking on her solo career. Her debut album, *Auf der Maur*, was released in 2004 under Capitol Records, followed by her second album, *Out of Our Minds*, in 2010 through her independent label, PHI–MAdM Music. In recognition of her contributions to music, VH1 honored her as number 68 on their list of the 100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll in 2007.

Beyond music, Auf der Maur is an accomplished photographer, with her work featured in prestigious publications like National Geographic and showcased at Sotheby’s. She has also ventured into acting, with roles in films such as *How to Make the Cruelest Month* (1998), *Beyond Borders* (2003), and *Collaborator* (2011). Notably, her 2009 project *Out of Our Minds* encompassed an album, a film, and a comic book, with her husband, filmmaker Tony Stone, playing a crucial role in its production. Together, they are the creative force behind Basilica Hudson, an arts and performance venue located in Hudson, New York.