About the Artist
Melody Slemming grew up on a farm nestled in the heart of Saskatchewan, where she cultivated a deep-rooted appreciation for the natural world. Her profound connection to the landscapes became an integral part of her artistic journey. In January of 2023, she embarked on a new chapter, delving into the realm of oil painting and subsequently unveiling Cedar and Canvas. While her artistic pursuits had previously touched upon acrylic painting, her primary focus had been fine art film photography, specializing in capturing the essence of families and weddings over an 11-year span. The evocative hues inherent to film photography and her adept understanding of composition seamlessly permeate her oil paintings. Drawing from the narrative elements of her past endeavors, Melody translates emotions onto her canvases, each stroke a testament to storytelling. Although she predominantly paints from her own photographic references, the prospect of venturing into plein air painting exhilarates her.
Image take by Lisa Klassen
Melody chooses oil as her medium because of the richness in color, and the timelessness of the work. The slow dry time lends to a playfulness in application. You can paint Alla Prima which allows a interesting interaction with each mark, or paintings can be created over time adding layers of depth and complexity. With each added layer, a new dimension is revealed, inviting the viewer to delve deeper into the artwork. The captivating brush marks that accompany thicker viscosity paints bring a textural thrill, adding a tactile element to the visual experience. As light plays upon the varied surfaces created by these layers, the artwork takes on a dynamic life of its own, drawing the viewer in and commanding attention.
In between creating art pieces, Melody and her husband have taken on the rewarding project of renovating a 1930’s character craftsman home nestled on 13 acres of land. Her passion for design and decorating is flourishing as each room is reinvigorated. Amidst this, she devotes herself to homeschooling her three children while incorporating elements of homesteading into their daily lives. Their home sits on a hill near a river where storms roll by often, and the views of the skies are expansive. The perfect everchanging backdrop for inspiration.
FAQs
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They can dry to touch in 2-4 weeks but the curing process can take 6-12 months. They should be handled with extreme caution during the curing period.
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Yes, all my pieces have a varnish applied after the dry to touch timeline that still allow breathability to allow for the curing process. That way the surface is a little more protected.
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For Jan-Feb of 2024 my new collection will be hosted by City Perks Coffee in Saskatoon, Sk. I am setting up a few more places to host my work after. You can always contact me for to set up a 1:1 gallery viewing as well. Annually I collaborate with Rachel of Fieldstone Farms when she hosts her annual Dahlia Garden party. I set up my art on easels for people to enjoy the art and flowers together. That occurs around August near Davidson SK. Sign up on the email list to be notified of the event details.
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With my background of photography and setting up detailed vignettes, coupled with my passion for interior design, I’m happy to offer free consultations on how to best display your custom art collection. I am well versed in composition, color cohesion and lighting.