About the Artists

Melanie Salvatore

Was born in 1978 in Edmonton Alberta. After studying Fine Arts at C.E.G.E.P. she went on to Carleton University to begin a B.A. in Art History. Melanie's oil on canvas paintings mix vivid color with powerful imagery. She considers herself primarily a colorist and through her work seeks to bring her vibrant visions to life. Melanie's work ranges from paintings based on a single word to paintings incorporating complex Eastern symbolism. Her ongoing word-based series draws from personal feelings of using words to positively influence healing and growth. Paintings are based on stylized sketches of words which are then developed into colorful scenes and shapes. Melanie's Asian-inspired pieces reference the iconic symbols that Western culture is now becoming familiar with. Geisha, Buddha, Zen gardens, the lotus flower, kimonos, temples: all are now staples in media and advertising. Melanie depicts these images in a simple and alluring style, bringing new life to ancient symbols with a vivid palette. In 2003-2004 Melanie and Robin lived and traveled in central Japan. Her 2006 portfolio is acrylic on canvas; a return to a less toxic medium. Melanie has most recently moved to Vancouver, where she plans to continue her studies and career in painting.

Robin Ruddock

Born 1983 in Ottawa Ontario. Robin studied Fine Arts with a concentration in visual arts at University of Ottawa. His paintings in acrylic on canvas depict scenes of the colorful and often contradictory modern world. Robin's earlier work invites the viewer to bring their own experiences into focus, and project a larger context from themselves. Robin's latest still life series is a revitalized approach to classical subject matter. Apples, pears, avocados, and other fruits and legumes are presented in super-realism against colorful backgrounds. They are dissected, reassembled and shown to be the versatile and energetic life-forms that they are. This is an ongoing 2006 series. Robin and his partner Melanie currently reside in Vancouver, where they continue to produce new and original art for sale. From 2004 to 2005 Melanie and Robin participated in community art events in Ottawa, exhibited at several restaurants, clubs, and cafe's in the downtown area, and established an online gallery.

Although most of their works are independent, they rely on each other as a source of inspiration and determination.

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