About Melanie
The Swimming Owl
The Story Behind the Name
Many many moons ago, while out on a walk with my husband in the woods near his childhood home, we came across a very strange sight: an owl swimming in a pond.
We could hardly believe our eyes as the great big bird swooshed its wings through the water and moved from one end of the pond to the other. It seemed so darn happy to paddle around, completely unbothered by the fact that owls are supposed to fly, not swim.
The sight of that owl had me in awe for days. We still talk about "that owl we saw swimming that one time."
And it inspired everything. If an owl can swim in a pond, I can open an art shop and follow creative dreams that once seemed too outlandish… and just see what could come of it.
If that made perfect sense to you, we might be long-lost best friends.
The Art
When I'm working on a new painting, I craft a one-of-a-kind source image using a combination of my own photos and found photos, building the vision I have in my head so I can bring it to life with paint.
I love to create work inspired by the natural world, full of color and whimsy. My goal is to bring back our sense of wonder and invite joy back into our lives.
My art is for the woman who pulls over for sunsets, talks to the birds and the bees, and wants to live in a dreamy, colorful space. I work with a mixed media approach, choosing the mediums that feel like the best fit for each subject.
Every original painting is signed by me, Melanie Bess, and is made with all of the love and wonder.
Come Find Your Piece of Wonder
Whether you're drawn to an original painting or looking for a creative escape with one of my coloring books, I'm so glad you're here.
Want to be the first to know about new work, studio updates, and the occasional owl sighting? Join my Owl Post Club Here.