In 2022, Melanie moved to the stunning Lincolnshire countryside with her two dogs. The serene landscape and long walks inspire her paintings, allowing her to immerse herself in the natural beauty that surrounds her.
Melanie’s work is characterized by her commitment to traditional realism, meticulously capturing the intricate details and vibrant colours of her subjects. She primarily uses oil paint on wooden panels or Belgian linen, employing fine detailed brushwork to achieve lifelike precision. Her technique involves building up layers to enhance the richness and complexity of the colours, bringing her subjects to life with remarkable clarity.
Her deep love for animals and nature is the driving force behind her art. Melanie opens a dialogue with the natural world, responding to its beauty and aiming to communicate this through her work. Her dedication to capturing the essence of her subjects is evident in the intricate details and textures she meticulously renders.
Born in London and raised in Nottingham, Melanie pursued a formal education in Graphic Design at New College Nottingham, earning a BA in Design from Nottingham Trent University. She initially built a career in digital illustration and graphic design, but her true passion lies in traditional painting.
“I strive to improve as an artist daily by capturing the intricate details and vibrant colours of nature that have always fascinated me,” Melanie explains. Her commitment to refining her techniques and exploring the beauty of animals and nature continues to drive her artistic journey.
Melanie is a member of the Association of Animal Artists. Her work can be viewed at their annual exhibitions. The AAA is dedicated to supporting its animal charity partners and actively works to promote them. Some of the charities they support include the Lancashire Constabulary Retired Police Horse Benevolent Fund, World Horse Welfare, Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (Martin Mere Wetland Centre), and the Pollyanna Pickering Foundation.
Spring Exhibition: Rose Paterson Gallery, Weston Park, April
Autumn Exhibition: The Station, Station Yard, Richmond, October
”“The longer you look at an object, the more abstract it becomes, and, ironically, the more real.”
― Lucian Freud
