About the Artist: 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. Favorite 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 Surrey. Melanie has written several books published by HarperCollins and produced a DVD with APV Films. She is currently writing a fourth book - 30 minute Oils, due for publication Spring 2010.

Art Groups: Melanie's lively demonstrations in both oils and acrylics offer plenty of inspiration and encouragement to "pick up your brushes and have a go". If you would like to invite her to give a demonstration, critique or workshop to your local art group, call ART PROFILE on 01234 764232.

Courses and Holidays: Alongside her lively demonstrations to art groups, Melanie runs regular courses at South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire as well as short painting breaks to Cornwall and the East Coast. Full details can be found on her website; www0

Books and Videos: Copies of her painting books and oils DVD can be purchased directly from her website: www.melaniecambridge.com. The 30-Minute Oil Painter, which she is writing at this year, is due for release in early 2010.

Artwork: Prices for original paintings start from £200 framed, with unframed prints from £18.00 upwards. Commission enquiries welcome, please visit her website for further information on this process and the latest exhibition news at www0

As a founder member of the Maritime Art Group, boats, harbours and beaches are favourite subjects. However, Melanie has recently produced some interesting abstract work, which is proving very popular. Visits to her studio in Surrey can be made by prior arrangement.

Melanie has two new demonstrations.

Flowers - Big, Bold and Beautiful - Mixed media flowers using acrylics, texture, and collage for a vibrant, semi-abstract effect. A lively demonstration offering a different approach to this traditional subject.

Alpine Adventures in Oils - Using sketches made on location, Melanie shows how to create imposing paintings of the high mountains in oils.