Meet the Artist

Melanie Morstad BioMelanie Morstad's Biography

One cannot grow up beneath the big skies of Saskatchewan and not feel an intimate connection to the land and skies. As an active outdoor enthusiast, my passion for nature is boldly expressed in colours and textures. Inspiration for my paintings is spawned in the places I have lived and traveled. My creative impulse can come from the figure-like personalities discovered in trees, the unique geography of the Crowsnest in southern Alberta, or my family’s stories. The ordinary and perhaps unnoticed is transformed into something special. When you look at my paintings, it is my hope that I have triggered a connection or emotion. Take a look around and remember to relish the moment. Chances are you have been there before, if only in your mind.


Watercolours have long been my medium of choice and as Van Morrison might put it; the waters “stoned me to my soul”. While I love their transparency and fluidity, I have added acrylics, inks, charcoal and other media to my creations. Drawing inspiration from the Abstract Expressionists, this layering of materials is more spontaneous, physical, emotional and experimental.

 

Residing in Calgary, I live on the edge of Fish Creek with my husband Kelly, and our sons Luke and Nolan. Active in the Alberta arts scene, I am a member of the Leighton Art Centre, the Crowsnest Pass Allied Arts Association, Burns Visual Arts Society and founding member of the Foothills Artists’ Society. For the last six years, I have organized the Art Show at the Parkland Solstice Festival in Calgary, making art accessible to the community. An enthusiastic art instructor, I welcome new students to my classes in Calgary.