Working from home in her own purpose-built, off-grid print studio, Mel explores the infinite creative possibilities of hand-carved and hand-printed works. Her design background is evident in her strong compositions and attention to detail that characterise her prints, while her curiosity and diverse interests continue to inspire new directions in her practice.

While travel has long been a source of inspiration, nowadays she is absolutely spellbound by the majestical coastal landscapes of her Queensland home. Having lived on or near the coast for decades, Mel has developed a deep appreciation for the flora, fauna, weather patterns, and ever-changing rhythms of the natural environment. These experiences inform much of her imagery, from iconic coastal landscapes and native plants to birds and marine life.

An active environmental advocate, Mel’s work is both a celebration of the natural world and an awareness of its fragility. Through her prints, she hopes to encourage a deeper connection with the environments we cherish and a greater appreciation of the need to protect them for future generations.

Coastal, Mel’s first solo exhibition, is held at the ArtPost Gallery in Gympie, from November 17 to December 5, 2026.  The exhibition features original black-and-white relief prints inspired by the landscapes, wildlife, and distinctive character of Queensland’s coastline.

Many of the artworks are printed on professionally handmade papers by local papermaker Dion Channer, which adds yet another layer of craftsmanship and individuality to each work, so be sure to keep an eye out for them.

Another thing to look forward to in this exhibition are the unique items from Mel’s clothing range Gold. In tandem with her printmaking practice, Mel applies her original designs to a range of one-of-a-kind upcycled, and self made garments. By transforming clothing through print, Mel combines creativity with sustainability, giving well-loved pieces a new life and encouraging a more thoughtful approach to fashion and fashion consumption. In her own words: “Don’t throw it away, stick a print on it and love it even more!”

Whether on paper or cloth, Mel’s work is united by a commitment to craftsmanship, a deep connection to place, and a desire to celebrate and protect the natural environment.