What Students Say:

"“Art was my lost passion until I was lucky enough to find Mel and signed up for art lessons straight away. Sebastian Studios provide the perfect space for me to let my artistic hair down. Most precious is that I can paint in peace, away from the demands of family and work. Mel is always on hand for technical advice and gentle guidance when needed. If art is your lost passion you will find it here.” – Karyn

"I have really enjoyed attending Mel's art classes because the atmosphere is relaxed and I don't have to be worried about being judged if I mess up. The small class sizes mean that we frequently get one-on-one attention to improve our work. Mel teaches traditional painting styles as well as sketching practice and soon, sculpting. The finished products are always works to be proud of and the feeling of walking past your own work on the wall is indescribable. I look forward to continuing my art education and producing more fantastic art pieces." – Alex (15)

“ I really look forward to my hour and half with Mel at Sebastian studios each week. We have so much fun – the time just flies by. I have learnt so much and it has given me the confidence to paint at home. I have hung every one of my paintings that I have done and get lovely comments from family and friends; some saying “no, you bought that…” until they see my signature at the bottom of the picture! You don’t have to have an artistic bone in your body to do these classes with Mel; she gives you the confidence and encouragement to tackle any project you want to do.” – Mandy

It's a friendly environment with a terrific teacher and you can express your personality through your paintings. Because I want to be a bird scientist I did a painting of an eagle. When I took it to school I became very popular because everyone was impressed with my artistic ability." - Rebekah (11)

"Sebastian Studios has given me the opportunity to let my creative side free. Mel provides reassurance and    an abundance of knowledge.  Each class leaves me feeling happy, relaxed and like I have achieved something for me." – Aleisha      

“My day sculpting with Mel was so much fun and so rewarding. What started as one big square of polystyrene is now a beautiful birdbath I can admire every day and say: ‘I made that’ – this makes me smile. Mel was so supportive, using my ideas with her skills and talent, together we created something I will treasure for a very long time. To anyone thinking about doing a workshop, I have just three words: ‘Go For It!’ – you won’t regret it. Thanks, Mel, for an awesome day!   - Tracey

“Mel’s class has been a fantastic experience. I have studied art before and I’ve even been to other adult art classes but I’ve found them frustrating and heavy in theory and that doesn’t make a finished piece very accessible, affordable or enjoyable. Mel’s approach is like no other and what she has helped me to paint is really beyond my expectation. I have a piece that I’ll hang proudly on my wall and my next one in pipeline. I have loved the class experience because everyone is so friendly and excited about what they are doing there – the energy and pace in all of the sessions is just amazing. Her hands on approach to teaching techniques and her willingness to help steer the work while listening and getting the best out of her students is a really special skill set for a person to possess.” - Andrea

“At the beginning of this year, one of my ‘New Years Resolutions’ was to find an art teacher. I have always enjoyed painting but never had the patience to finish - or know how to finish - a piece that I was comfortable with. I found Mel on gumtree.com and have been attending art lessons since March 2009. I have worked on a range of pieces, learning how to use different mediums and how to develop compositions that work. Whether they are still life or abstract, there are always lessons to be learnt. Mel’s studio is set up to easily develop your skills and feel comfortable to explore your imagination. I have finished a range of pieces under Mel’s direction and have worked on other pieces in my own time that I am also proud of. “ – Emma