Artist Statement
Between Earth and Sky features paintings which portray the natural world in a glorious kaleidoscope of colour, shape and texture.
For me, painting is all about the process; I rarely have a finished work in my mind when I put brush to canvas. I enjoy the dance of mark making with strong sweeps of direction and tone that are eventually tamed into more representational imagery. With an electric palette and layered application of brush strokes I portray a vivid interpretation of the landscape around me.
I invite the viewer to see the Australian bush through a vibrant and optimistic vision of colour and light.
Mellissa’s vibrant yet calming works have been shown in numerous successful exhibitions internationally and throughout Australia. She is also the recipient of numerous Australian art prizes.
This is Mellissa’s first solo exhibition in Canberra.
About the Artist
Mellissa Read-Devine was born in England in the 1960s and as a child emigrated to Australia with her family.
Living in rural Sydney overlooking the Hawkesbury River, Mellissa’s paintings have evolved into her “macropointilist” style celebrating the shape, colour and brushstroke of contemporary impressionism.
She has studied & practiced printmaking and painting continuously since the mid ‘90s and is a recipient of many prizes and awards. Her sought after works are part of many private and public collections around the world.
Mellissa’s work ranges between vibrant interpretations of her local landscape to intricate wood & linocuts.
Her combination of quirkiness and calm blend to create works with a strong spiritual base. Mellissa is an Associate of the Royal Art Society NSW.