Hello, and Welcome!
I’m Mel, an Aussie/Kiwi Illustrator & Surface Pattern Designer living in the coolest capital in the World, Wellington New Zealand. I work full-time illustrating children’s books and designing patterns for fabric, stationery and kids’ products.
If you’re looking to collaborate or enquire about licensing,
then let’s chat!!
WHAT I DO
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ART & ILLUSTRATION
I’m an award-winning children’s book illustrator and have illustrated over 15 books ranging from baby board books, children’s picture books and activity books. I also produce original artworks using Gouache, which are available in my online shop.
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SURFACE PATTERN DESIGN
I create patterns for a range of different products and companies, including fabric, children’s products and stationery. If you’re interested in licensing a design from me, please do reach out and have a chat!
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ONLINE EDUCATOR
I’m one of Skillshare’s Top Teachers, putting me in the top 1% of teachers on the platform. I teach both illustration and surface pattern design. I also have a signature course “The Art & Joy of Surface Pattern Design”, a 6-week intensive program that covers everything about Surface Pattern Design
LEARN WITH MEL
Build a Career as a
Surface Pattern Designer
and find the art & joy of seeing your artwork on fabric, stationery, home decor and more.
Build a career selling beautiful surface pattern designs. Learn the ins and outs of Surface Pattern Design by creating a nature-inspired pattern collection using either Procreate, Photoshop or Illustrator. This self-paced 6-module course will take you through the creative, technical and business side of Surface Pattern Design.
Unlock Your Creative Potential!
Mini-Courses
Explore the World of Surface Pattern Design, Illustration, and building a Creative Business with one of my short courses
Are you ready to embark on a journey of artistic discovery? Elevate your skills and turn your passion into a thriving creative business with my selection of short courses!
Join my Community!
Are you a...
Surface Pattern Designer
...looking for a community to support and guide you?
Look no further! Our member-based community provides mentorship and resources for artists at all stages of their careers. Whether you're just starting out or already established, our community is here to support you. Connect with other artists who speak your language and share your passion for creating and licensing patterns. Take advantage of industry-leading resources to improve your skills and grow your career. And most importantly, feel supported and encouraged every step of the way.
Hello, I’m Mel
Illustrator & Surface Pattern Designer
Originally from New Zealand, but living the majority of her working life in Australia, Mel is an accomplished illustrator and surface pattern designer, with global recognition on diverse products.
In 2018, she ventured into children's illustration, winning the 2020 Rubery Book Award for her debut picture book “A Home for Luna”.
Mel is also a top teacher on Skillshare with over 50,000 students, where she enjoys sharing her expertise and knowledge.
She also has her own learning platform Learn with Mel featuring her signature course, "The Art & Joy of Surface Pattern Design," inspiring the careers of over 200 talented artists & surface pattern designers.
