Areas of Expertise and Interest
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Illustration for Children & Surface Pattern Design
Melanie has a passion for creating vibrant, engaging illustrations for children. Her work often blends playful elements with meaningful narratives, crafting visuals that captivate young audiences. With a keen eye for design and storytelling, she enjoys developing artwork that brings books, educational materials, and other children’s products to life.
In addition, Melanie specialises in surface pattern design, creating unique patterns that can be applied to a range of products, from textiles to homeware. Her designs are characterised by bold colours, intricate details, and a sense of whimsy, making them perfect for everything from fashion to interiors. She is open to commissions for both children’s illustration and surface pattern design projects.
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Global Presentations & Public Speaking
Melanie has an extensive history of presenting and exhibiting her work at an international level, both as an individual speaker and as part of esteemed panel discussions. She has served as a keynote speaker at numerous conferences and is always eager to share her current research globally. Her approach is rooted in engaging diverse audiences, fostering dialogue, and driving forward impactful conversations in her areas of expertise.
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PhD Supervision & Mentorship
Having earned her own PhD, Melanie deeply understands both the rewards and challenges of the doctoral journey. Her supervisory approach is centred on the wellbeing and success of her students. Melanie combines academic guidance with emotional support, creating a balanced, compassionate environment for scholarly growth. She thrives in mentoring students and colleagues who are committed to creative methodologies that empower marginalised communities. Through her supervision, students are equipped to contribute meaningfully to their respective fields, making a real difference in the world.
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Consultancy & External Examining
With over 30 years of experience in academia, Melanie offers consultancy services to universities, businesses, and organisations looking for expert advice and support. She has a strong background in academic governance, having served as an external examiner at institutions such as Ulster University and the University of Essex for over a decade. Melanie also acted as a peer mentor for ArtsWorks, contributing to the growth and development of numerous academic initiatives.
Research, Publication & Exhibition Collaborations
Melanie is open to collaborative opportunities in research, publications, and exhibitions. She has previously worked with respected organisations such as the University of Sunderland, Barnardo’s, the NSPCC, and Leicestershire Police. If you are seeking expertise or partnership in these areas, please don’t hesitate to get in touch to explore the possibilities.
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Commissions & Licensing Opportunities
Melanie’s work is available for exhibition, and she is also open to commissions and licensing arrangements. Her body of work has resonated with diverse audiences, and she welcomes enquiries regarding potential exhibitions or creative collaborations.
For further details or enquiries, please feel free to get in touch.