Hello & Welcome

I’m Melanie Dorsey—self-taught artist, former classroom art teacher and ever-learning gardener. I draw inspiration from the gardens, wildlife and beaches of my home on the Gulf Coast in Florida. No matter what I put my hand to - painting, journaling, gardening or baking bread, the creative process is the heart of it all. Art is what I make and Artful Living is my lifestyle—the joyous connection of heart and hand.

I paint in both acrylic paint and watercolor. My affinity for botanical illustrations influences much of my watercolor artwork and my love of color is reflected in my acrylic paintings. In 2013, I began selling my art and, soon after, teaching classes in my home studio, coffee shops, retail boutiques and to women’s groups. My watercolor art was featured in the HGTV magazine, December 2018 edition. Utilizing my degrees in education and communications, I enjoy teaching art in an easily accessible way. I embrace a sketchbook practice as well as nature journaling and earned an Educator’s Certification in Nature Journaling.

A Glimpse Into My Sketchbook

A Look at My Art, Garden & Studio

A Peak Into my Nature Journal

In Studio

Private Art Lessons

I offer art lessons for individuals or small groups. Lessons begin at $30/hour and take place in my home studio or on Zoom.

What would you like to learn?

* how to get started with watercolor

* how to paint flowers

* how to paint birds

* how to paint an ocean scene

Or something else? Interested? Let’s talk!

Host a Workshop or Class

Need a morning, afternoon or evening of relaxation where an experienced art educator leads a session of creative flow? I’ve led small groups as well as larger groups of 30+. Let’s talk!

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