My early work is strongly influenced by the mythical fantasy world, where archetypes, mermaids and fairies figure in dream landscapes. Later works have been inspired by the magical and fantastic elements that exist in the natural world around us. Most recently i have taken to assemblages, combining everything i love about creating.
All my art works are intricate illustrations of rich narratives. They are deeply personal and reflect my multi-cultural influences and inspirations. There is often a geography in my work, in the ideas but also the structure. I am passionate about my work. I find the process of creating artwork introspective, reflective and meditative as well as stimulating, thrilling and exciting. I enjoy that they can have similar effects on viewers. My work allows me to give form to my stories and also informs them. I enjoy that it can then be viewed through many more lenses to create even newer narratives.
My work is influenced by Art Deco, Gustav Klimt, Frida Kahlo, iconography, M.C. Escher, Shaun Tan, Yayoi Kusama, John Olsen, religious art, rose windows, nature, symbols, narrative, colour, geometry, fractals, medieval manuscripts, children’s book illustrations, maps, graphic novels and the list just keeps changing and growing.
My artwork has appeared on gallery walls, in people’s homes, on business cards and magazine and book covers. My designs have been tattooed on bodies, and my illustrations have been used on shopfronts and as site maps. I have produced posters, flyers and pamphlets, newsletters and magazines.
Melanie van Kessel 