The Jolly Sailor, Maldon

(oil on board, 14 x 10 inches)

Melanie's main artistic influences come from working outdoors, indeed, most of her paintings are produced at least in part on location, even in winter, with light and colour playing a major role in her work. Favourite subjects tend to involve water, she particularly enjoys painting by the Thames in Central London and views from the banks of the River Wey in in Surrey.

Melanie has written several books published by HarperCollins and produced a DVD with APV Films. As a teacher she runs workshops and painting holidays both in the UK and abroad, teaching mainly in oils and acrylics. Currently secretary to the Maritime Art Group, formed from painting Lay Members of the RSMA, she is also a professional associate of the SAA and an exhibiting member of Guilford Art Society.