Born in Asilah, Morocco, Mohamed Melehi studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Tetouan before continuing his education in Seville, Madrid, and Rome. He later moved to the United States in the early 1960s, where he was influenced by the New York School and color field painting, before returning to Morocco to teach at the École des Beaux-Arts in Casablanca.

Melehi is best recognized for his signature wave motif, a recurring geometric form that appeared in his murals, paintings, and public installations. His work often utilized vibrant, high-contrast color palettes to bridge the gap between traditional Islamic geometric patterns and contemporary abstract expressionism.

As a key proponent of the Casablanca School, Melehi played a significant role in shifting Moroccan art toward a post-colonial identity that embraced both local heritage and global modernist trends. He remained an influential educator and organizer throughout his career, notably co-founding the Asilah Arts Festival.