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Melissa Cole
View Melissa Cole Originals
Melissa Cole, born January 22,
1967, is an artist, writer, and
wildlife photographer who lives
in Spokane, Washington with her
husband, Brandon. They have
spent much time together
traveling the world
photographing whales, dolphins,
sharks, and the underwater
world. From the Seychelles
Islands off Africa to the icy
waters surrounding Vancouver
Island British Columbia, they
have played beneath the ocean's
waves. Orca whales have breached
beside their boat at sunset,
they have danced with wild
dolphins, and have been kissed
by gentle manatees. These ocean
creatures inspire and delight
Melissa who takes along her
painting supplies on these trips
to record first hand these
enduring subjects.
Melissa paints with gouache,
watercolor, acrylic paints, oils
using very fine brushes to
create her detailed designs. She
is inspired by native artists
worldwide who use bright colors
and intricate patterns. She
strives to capture in her own
unique way the energy that she
finds in their paintings.
Melissa graduated with a BS
Degree in Zoology from Oregon
State University in Corvallis,
Oregon. She also took classes in
sculpture, figure drawing and
watercolor painting. Her special
skills include designing large
murals and artwork. She also is
a designer for Designer Stained
Glass and has done sculptural
work using clay. She has
published and authored thirty
children's nature books, Alaska
Notes greeting cards, and given
art lectures. Melissa has
exhibited her work in many
galleries in Spokane, Seattle,
Alaska, Wyoming, Washington and
the Oregon Coast.
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