This 2020 season, I was thrilled to be able to help spread hope and cheer around the region by completing window painting at 37 public locations, listed below, if you are in the area you can view them in person...

Melani Pyke

Artist

St. Catharines:
A&W Fourth Ave.

A&W Welland Ave.

A&W Glendale (Pen Centre)

Niagara Falls:

A&W Thorold Stone Road

A&W McLeod Rd.

Frank’s Pizzeria, Bridge St.

All Tax Main St.

Canada One outlet mall, Lundy’s Lane (2 storefronts for their gift wrapping centre and backdrop behind giant Christmas tree.)

Boston Pizza, Clifton Hill

Canada Trading Company, Clifton Hill

Kelsey’s, Clifton Hill (interior)

Fudge Factory, Clifton Hill

Fun Factory, Clifton Hill

Fun Zone, Clifton Hill

Fun Zone, Fallsview Blvd.

Tim Hortons, Clifton Hill

Smithville:

A&W, Catherine Street

Grimsby:

Mrs. Greenway, Main Street

Port Colborne:

A&W, Main W/Hwy 3

Little Caesars, Westside Road

Tim Hortons, Westside Road

Welland:

A&W, Niagara Street (Seaway Mall)

Rapelje Lodge, Plymouth Rd

Welland Community Wellness Complex, Lincoln Rd.

Fort Erie:

Native Friendship Centre, Buffalo Rd.

The Barrel, Garrison Rd.

Crawford Smith & Swallow, Jarvis St.

Tim Hortons, Crescent Park location on Garrison Road

Tim Hortons, Main location on Garrison Rd.

Tim Hortons, Stevensville Road

Tim Hortons, Crystal Beach location on Ridgeway Rd 

Crescent Garden Florist, Garrison Rd.

Employment Professionals, Garrison Rd.

Halinda Law Office, Garrison Rd.

Revel Realty, Garrison Rd.

Mississauga:

Tim Hortons, Meadowvale

Streetsville Home Hardware

Root beer bubbles float up and magically turn in to Christmas tree balls in this fun custom window artwork located at the A&W restaurant at Pen Centre, St. Catharines Ontario. (The bear is their mascot "Rooty.")

Get your business noticed with custom window painting! Although temporary, many of my designs are still talked about years later. Prices start at around $75 for small/single window within the Niagara region - square footage and complexity of design is taken into account as each window is custom and one of a kind, so please contact me with your idea and location for a quote. My schedule books up every year as I paint at 40+ locations, so please contact me today.

I have had 7 years experience in professional quality custom Holiday window painting in St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Welland, Fort Erie, Port Colborne and Grimsby, and expanding into Toronto and Hamilton. 

Click here to contact artist Melani Pyke

Click here for more window painting samples

I've completed three awesome new custom selfie mural art boards for Safari Niagara in Stevensville Ontario Canada! Come check them out and take your pic with them throughout the park when Safari Niagara opens for the season in May!

HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope 2019 is filled with lots of love and sunsets.

A beautiful sunset backdrop for this lovely couple dancing on the water painted as a translucent layered image. The waves on the lake serve as a reminder that true love survives the rocky waves that life throws at us. The fact that they're walking on water is to remind us that miracles aren't just stories from Jesus' day, but are possible today.

 
The setting is actually Port Dalhousie pier in St. Catharines Ontario Canada from a photo I took years ago, and the people in the painting are not based on anyone in particular because my hope is that everyone can see themselves here - this piece has a second layer of meaning based on the Bible which talks about the church being the bride of Jesus Christ, and God's love is eternal.

My 2017 painting titled Giving and Receiving has received Honourable Mention in the Oakton Foundation Spring 2018 Visual Art Competition!

Click here to see the other winning pieces.

I've used this painting several times in giving talks to young children at elementary schools, and it's amazing how many of the kids saw the water as God's love pouring down from His hands! The kids easily understood the positive message of spreading kindness and love that this painting carries.

A simple act of kindness has a ripple effect that we are usually unaware of. God's love is contagious, and water being essential for life is a wonderful symbol for this which we see throughout the Bible.  I pray that my painting will remind viewers of the importance of our connection to God and others. In John 14:4 Jesus summed it up perfectly when he said, "whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

The original painting is available for sale. Please click here for more information including "Buy Now" link to purchase and pay through Paypal.

Open edition prints are available. Please click here to purchase a print of this painting!

Brand new painting just completed! 12x16" oil and acrylic on 1" stretched canvas, currently unframed. More info here.

More than an environmental message to protect our precious wildlife, I hope that this painting reminds you of the importance of relationships and connecting with other people. It's amazing the way orcas stay together in pods and communicate with each other the way they do, a fascinating study.

I developed this image from another painting I did two months ago of a mother and baby orca whale for an Art Battle live painting competition. This painting is a similar underwater view of whales, but with the translucent effect added for a more surreal look than a traditional realist wildlife piece.

11x14" oil and acrylic on canvas, $350. Please click here for more info and availability.

I painted the deer leaping over a ravine to remind us to take a leap in faith, knowing that God will help us over life's valleys:

"The Sovereign Lord is my strength;
    he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
    he enables me to tread on the heights." (Habakkuk 3:19 NIV)

Also, leaping for joy when miracles small and large do happen:

"Then will the lame leap like a deer,
    and the mute tongue shout for joy.
Water will gush forth in the wilderness
    and streams in the desert." (Isaiah 35:6 NIV)

I also found the image of a deer and water in Psalm 42 verse 1:

"As the deer pants for streams of water,
    so my soul pants for you, my God."

But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 

(2 Thessalonians 3:3)

Painted live during worship at Light City Church, Fort Erie Canada, February 4, 2018.

10x10" acrylic on panel. Please click here for more info and availability.

"Every word of God is flawless;

    he is a shield to those who take refuge in him." (Proverbs 30:5)

How on earth did I take this verse and come up with a baby sleeping on the lake with giant hands over him? 

Well, sometimes it seems to me like our lives are held together by unseen miracles. This baby is sleeping on a bed of water, and like him we are usually completely unaware of what's going on in the spiritual realm. If we stay in God's word, he shields us from unseen dangers.

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THIS PAINTING IS #30 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

12x16" acrylic on canvas. Click here for more info and availability.

Evil people are trapped by sin,
    but the righteous escape, shouting for joy. (Proverbs 29:6 NLT)

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THIS PAINTING IS #29 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

10x10" oil on panel. Please click here for more info and availability!

Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart,
    and the pleasantness of a friend
    springs from their heartfelt advice. Proverbs 27:9

An antique bottle of perfume and sepia tones throughout the painting give this modern piece a timeless feel. I began with "joy" and "pleasantness" in mind, from Proverbs 27:9, but then gave it more of a romantic theme with the children holding hands and a closeup of hands reminding us of the joy and beauty that comes from intimacy with others.

Sometimes you have to make yourself vulnerable to receive heartfelt advice, but it does bring joy if coming from someone you trust.

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THIS PAINTING IS #27 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

5x7" oil and acrylic on canvas. For more info and availability click here.

Water is not only refreshing but necessary for life. In some forms though it can also be dangerous, even deadly.

Proverbs 25 says a cool drinks refreshing like a trustworthy person.

"Like a snow-cooled drink at harvest time
    is a trustworthy messenger to the one who sends him;
    he refreshes the spirit of his master." (verse 13)

 Hearing good news from someone is also like a refreshing drink of water.

"Like cold water to a weary soul
    is good news from a distant land." (verse 25)

We are even reminded that kind acts (like offering someone a drink) is a great thing to do in a conflict situation!

"If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat;
    if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head,
    and the Lord will reward you." (verse 21-22)

I painted the glass not just full but overflowing, because the Bible has many references to God's love filling us to overflowing so that we can go out and help others.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15:13 NIV)

THIS PAINTING IS #25 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

Jesus told the parable of the lost sheep:

“Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent." (Luke 15:4-7 NIV)

THIS PAINTING IS #23 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

24x18" oil on canvas. Please click here for more info on this painting.

I began this painting back in December and set it aside to dry as I began my daily painting series on January 1st. Today's proverb fit the theme of the painting well enough to give me motivation to finish it, so unlike the other paintings in my daily Proverbs series, this wasn't completed within a 24 hour period. The idea is that we walk through seasons in life. Our father God walks with us, and gives us wisdom that keeps us on the right path and moving forward. Proverbs 22:6 advises us to train our children in God's ways, so the father in the painting could be you as a parent or mentor giving good guidance in the hopes that they will make good decisions.

"Start children off on the way they should go,
    and even when they are old they will not turn from it." (Proverbs 22:6 NIV)

"Pay attention and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise;
    apply your heart to what I teach,
for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart
    and have all of them ready on your lips.
So that your trust may be in the Lord,
    I teach you today, even you.

 Have I not written thirty sayings for you,
    sayings of counsel and knowledge,
teaching you to be honest and to speak the truth,
    so that you bring back truthful reports
    to those you serve?" (Proverbs 22:17-21 NIV)

"There is a time for everything,
    and a season for every activity under the heavens." Ecclesiases 3:1

THIS PAINTING IS #22 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

"Ready for Victory" 11x14 inches acrylic on canvas, please click here for more info on this painting.

"The horse is made ready for the day of battle,
    but victory rests with the Lord." Proverbs 21:31

"No king is saved by the size of his army;
    no warrior escapes by his great strength.
A horse is a vain hope for deliverance;
    despite all its great strength it cannot save." Psalm 33:16-17

THIS PAINTING IS #21 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

5x7" acrylic on canvas, please click here for purchase info.

"The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters,

    but one who has insight draws them out." Proverbs 20:5

"He reached down from on high and took hold of me;
    he drew me out of deep waters." Psalm 18:16

I have two thoughts on the "deep water" symbolism in this piece:

One is the water as deep wisdom, encouraging us to seek what is deep and going beyond the literal, surface things of the world.

The second comes more from Psalm 18:16 which I kept thinking of as I began painting the water and where the symbol of the hand comes from: God's hand reaches the lowest depths we may find ourselves in. There is no circumstance that is impossible for him, nowhere you can go where he can't find you.

THIS PAINTING IS #20 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

Do you ever feel like you have  a lot of plans but no real purpose? Are you not accomplishing as much as you feel you should be?

A crowd stands in the foreground together yet disconnected from each other as they look down at their devices or books. Meanwhile a boy has climbed a tree and looks off in the distance at a hiker who has made it to the top of a hill. Proverbs 19 verse 21 sums up this painting:

"Many are the plans in a person’s heart,
    but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails."

THIS PAINTING IS #19 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

16x12" oil on canvas, $400.00

An eagle approaches a tall, strong branch. A storm can be seen off in the distance, but it is no danger to this bird who has a protective eagle shadowing him from above, like the Holy Spirit or a guardian angel keeps us safe from unseen dangers around us.  I came up with this imagery after spending some time thinking about Proverbs 18, and two verses in particular:

The name of the Lord is a fortified tower;
    the righteous run to it and are safe. (verse 10)

One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin,
    but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. (verse 24)

THIS PAINTING IS #18 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

9x12" Acrylic on canvas. Please click here for purchase online.

What better to illustrate a cheerful heart than children jumping off a dock? 

Your attitude does affect your health, as Solomon summed up so well in Proverbs 17:22...

A cheerful heart is good medicine,
    but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. 

THIS PAINTING IS #17 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

8x10" acrylic on canvas. Please click here for more info on this painting.

I took Proverbs 16 as my inspiration for my painting today, and there were many incredible proverbs in this chapter that would make excellent artwork. I loved the idea of words as sweet as honeycomb in verse 24, words that heal, so I started with the honeycomb as a base before adding the woman speaking and the rose across the lower right. May this painting be a reminder to speak encouraging, uplifting words as much as possible.

Gracious words are a honeycomb,
    sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

(Proverbs 16:24)

THIS PAINTING IS #16 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

Today I've painted a person caught up in anger, and a friend gently approaching and offering a way out. Proverbs 15 contains a couple of different verses advising us to stay calm in a conflict situation. 

A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict,
    but the one who is patient calms a quarrel. (verse 18)

A gentle answer turns away wrath,
    but a harsh word stirs up anger. (verse 1)

THIS PAINTING IS #15 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

A heart at peace gives life to the body,

    but envy rots the bones. (Proverbs 14:30)

4x4" acrylic on canvas, please click here for more info on this painting.

THIS PAINTING IS #14 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying. Please help support this project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

Painting from Proverbs 13, two verses stuck out for me:

"Walk with the wise and become wise,
    for a companion of fools suffers harm." (verse 20)

"Righteousness guards the person of integrity,
    but wickedness overthrows the sinner." (verse 6)

After some thought on this, I decided to paint a baby following in the footsteps of a wise parent. I also painted a dog's footprints in the sand, to symbolize a "fool": the baby should not to follow the dog into the water.

THIS PAINTING IS #13 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what they might be saying for you today. Please help support this painting project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering the purchase of a painting or print.

11x14" oil and acrylic on canvas, click here for more info.

The painting of the day celebrates rural farm life, as well as the wisdom of Proverbs 12. In the sky framed by cumulous clouds, a child's hands hold up a baby chick. The landscape is a  thriving vegetable garden.

There are three proverbs from chapter 12 that go with this painting...

The caring child's hands come from verse 10:

The godly care for their animals,
    but the wicked are always cruel. 

And the fields and garden come from verse 11:

A hard worker has plenty of food,
    but a person who chases fantasies has no sense.

I also liked verse 25 so wanted to mention it here as well. People are like delicate little chicks, easily stressed, so we need to make an effort to be encouraging and build each other up:

Worry weighs a person down;
    an encouraging word cheers a person up.

THIS PAINTING IS #12 IN THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what God might be saying. Please help support this painting project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering purchasing a painting or print.

 8x8" Oil and acrylic on canvas showing ruins of the Parthenon, with olive branches. Click here to purchase this painting.

Proverbs 11:28 was where the idea for this piece began: 

Those who trust in their riches will fall,
    but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.

I wanted to show a once-glorious thing now in ruins to illustrate those who trust in money, and although the remains of the Parthenon in Athens Greece is still beautiful and wonderfully preserved today, it's not used for what it was designed for. To illustrate the righteous as the thriving green leaf, I chose olive branches because they make me think of the return of Noah's dove, a symbol of hope and renewal.

The branches are overlaid, painted in a translucent way and not really belonging with the architectural background, similar to the way the righteous life conflicts with a money-loving life:  The rich put material things ahead of God's ways, leading to their downfall in the end.

THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018 by oil/acrylic artist Melani Pyke, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what God might be saying through them. Please help support this painting project through prayer, spreading the word, and considering purchasing a painting or print.

Proverbs 10 was my inspiration for today's painting, and I picked out verse 25 in particular to show with the image of the rocks standing firm despite being beaten by the waves, the storm waves leaving seaweed piles on the beach, and the pair of mallard ducks heading fearlessly towards the cold rough water.

"When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone,
    but the righteous stand firm forever." (verse 25)

The fact that the innocent little ducks look so calm and confident reminds us of verse 9:

"Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,
    but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out."

Another great thought for today:

"Hatred stirs up conflict,
    but love covers over all wrongs." (verse 12)

Below is the reference photo that I used for this painting, which I took this fall. Do you recognize the location?

THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what God might be saying. Please help support this unique ministry through prayer, spreading the word, and considering purchasing a painting or print.

This painting is #9 in my series on Proverbs, and the imagery comes from verses 1-6 (below) where Wisdom invites everyone to her house for dinner. I've tried to show this by picturing us as simple little wild birds coming to the bird feeder to find food, an easier way to live in winter.

Wisdom has built her house;
    she has set up its seven pillars.
She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine;
    she has also set her table.
She has sent out her servants, and she calls
    from the highest point of the city,
“Let all who are simple come to my house!”
To those who have no sense she says,
“Come, eat my food
    and drink the wine I have mixed.
Leave your simple ways and you will live;
    walk in the way of insight.”

11x14" oil on canvas, please click here for more info on this painting.

THE DAILY PROVERBS PROJECT

A painting every day in January 2018, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what God might be saying. Please help support this unique ministry through prayer, spreading the word, and considering purchasing a painting or print.

Today's painting from Proverbs 8 reveals a lot about God's heart in its description of wisdom. Below are some verses that stood out for me, and were the basis of my oil painting. The hands are Wisdom's (so God's,) offering us something far more valuable and lasting than worldly riches. The globe that the hands are holding takes the form of a priceless pearl made of light, and the background a galaxy which brings to mind creation and infinity.

12x12" oil on canvas. Please click here for more info and "Buy Now" link.

"Choose my instruction instead of silver,
    knowledge rather than choice gold,
for wisdom is more precious than rubies,
    and nothing you desire can compare with her." (verses 10-11)

"I love those who love me,
    and those who seek me find me. 

With me are riches and honor,

    enduring wealth and prosperity."(verses 17-18)

"The Lord brought me forth as the first of his works,
    before his deeds of old;
I was formed long ages ago,
    at the very beginning, when the world came to be." (verses 22-23)

This Painting is #8 in The Daily Proverbs Project

By Melani Pyke, artist painting in oil and acrylic

- A painting every day in January 2018, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

The purpose is to discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, and think about what God might be saying. Please support this unique ministry through prayer, and consider purchasing a painting or print.

A woman clutches a Bible to her chest.  My original sketch has flames behind her, (Proverbs 7 is a warning against adultery to I wanted to show someone turning away from danger and holding onto the word of God instead,) but I changed the background to a northern landscape with the northern lights shining bright in the sky.

"Follow my advice, my son;

    always treasure my commands.

Obey my commands and live!

    Guard my instructions as you guard your own eyes.

Tie them on your fingers as a reminder.

    Write them deep within your heart."

Proverbs 7:1-3

January 7, 2018

18x24” acrylic on canvas by Melani Pyke

“You make the clouds your chariot;

    you ride upon the wings of the wind.

The winds are your messengers;

    flames of fire are your servants.”  (Psalm 104:3-4 NLT)

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”  (Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV)

Some thoughts on today's Proverbs painting:

The hardworking ants come from verses 6-8,

"Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones.
    Learn from their ways and become wise!
Though they have no prince
    or governor or ruler to make them work,
they labor hard all summer,
    gathering food for the winter." (New Living Translation)

The Canada Goose comes from verse 5: "Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter,
    like a bird from the snare of the fowler." This was talking about getting control of your finances, but I think applies to many things where we are caught up in something we shouldn't be, and it takes some guts to face the situation and get out of it.

So this painting is saying that we can gain freedom through perseverance, boldness and hard work. What do you see in it?

Please click here for more information on this painting, including how to purchase.

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This Painting is #6 in The Daily Proverbs Project:

WHO: Melani Pyke, artist painting in oil and acrylic

WHAT: A painting every day in January, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs

WHERE: I am based out of Crystal Beach, Ontario, Canada. The daily paintings will appear on my blog, and you can also subscribe to the email newsletter.

WHEN: January 2018, with potential to continue.

WHY:  To discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, think about what God might be saying, and forward it to a friend to encourage and inspire them as well!

Please support this unique ministry through prayer, and consider purchasing a painting or print.

My daily painting for January 5th, 2018.  6x6" oil on canvas, click here for purchase info.

Proverbs 5 is a warning against adultery, which was challenging to illustrate.

I often run along the beach this time of year when the lake starts to freeze. The snow covered beach and ice formations are beautiful, but the ice hills along the water's edge drop off suddenly into the deadly cold water. In my painting, I made these ice hills into the shape of a woman, like Proverbs 5 warns, she may appear lovely but leads to real problems.

For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey,
    and her speech is smoother than oil;
but in the end she is bitter as gall,
    sharp as a double-edged sword.
Her feet go down to death;
    her steps lead straight to the grave.

(Proverbs 5:3-5)

I also placed a woman in the cloud formations to symbolize later in the chapter where we are told to instead "rejoice in the wife of your youth."

Here is the reference photo I took a few days ago at Crystal Beach along the north shore of Lake Erie:

The Daily Proverbs Project:

WHO: Melani Pyke, artist painting in oil and acrylic

WHAT: A painting every day in January, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs

WHERE: I am based out of Crystal Beach, Ontario, Canada. The daily paintings will appear on my blog, and you can also subscribe to the email newsletter.

WHEN: January 2018, with potential to continue.

WHY:  To discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, think about what God might be saying, and forward it to a friend to encourage and inspire them as well!

Please support this unique ministry through prayer, and consider purchasing a painting or print.

My daily painting for January 4, 2018 shows a man walking up a hill of rough thorny grass with a boy lifted on his shoulders. I had pictured a father and son relationship, as Proverbs 10-12 describe a father leading his son in wisdom, for his protection:

"Listen, my son, accept what I say,
    and the years of your life will be many.
I instruct you in the way of wisdom
    and lead you along straight paths.
When you walk, your steps will not be hampered;
    when you run, you will not stumble."

As I painted in the figures, I decided to dress the man in a white robe, resembling a traditional looking Jesus. Thus the painting reminds us that it is Jesus that carries us over the impossible into God's kingdom.

This piece is 12x12" oil and acrylic on canvas. Click here for more information about this painting, including how to purchase.

The Daily Proverbs Project:

WHO: Melani Pyke, artist painting in oil and acrylic

WHAT: A painting every day in January, to represent something from each of the 31 chapters of the Old Testament book of Proverbs

WHERE: I am based out of Crystal Beach, Ontario, Canada. The daily paintings will appear on my blog, and you can also subscribe to the email newsletter.

WHEN: January 2018, with potential to continue.

WHY:  To discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, think about what God might be saying, and forward it to a friend to encourage and inspire them as well!

Please support this unique ministry through prayer, and consider purchasing a painting or print.

Here is a link to my previous Psalm-a-Day painting series!

My painting of the day for January 3rd, 2018. This small 6x6" acrylic painting was made using just 2 colours plus white. The image of the woman holding her cross necklace came from verse 3, "Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart."

Below this, there is a lighted path through the dark forest came from verses  5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

I also loved verse 18, which describes wisdom: "She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;  those who hold her fast will be blessed."

Click here for more info about this painting, including how to purchase.

The Daily Proverbs Project:

WHO: Melani Pyke, artist painting in oil and acrylic

WHAT: A painting every day in January, to represent each chapter of the Old Testament book of Proverbs

WHERE: I am based out of Crystal Beach, Ontario, Canada. The daily paintings will appear on my blog, and you can also subscribe to the email newsletter.

WHEN: January 2018, with potential to continue.

WHY:  To discover wisdom through creative new visual images that represent God's word. I hope that you will take a moment to view the painting and quote, think about what God might be saying, and forward it to a friend to encourage and inspire them as well!

Please support this unique ministry through prayer, and consider purchasing a painting or print.

Here is a link to my previous Psalm-a-Day painting series!

Thank you to Trish and Sanjay for putting on an amazing Art Battle event tonight. Thank you to all of the wonderful artists and art lovers who voted for me, but most of all to God for giving me a gift for painting and opportunities like this to share it.  It is amazing to see how many people appreciate what I do and identify with the positive imagery I try to portray. I declined the opportunity to say a few words when it was announced that I won the live painting competition tonight, but I want to say that I hope that everyone there tonight finds joy in creating, and does what they are able to make the world a more beautiful place.

I titled this painting of a dove over a person walking into the ocean Finding Piece. This was the winning painting I created in Round 2. It is 24x20 inches, and was painted in just 20 minutes alongside 3 other finalists!

My Round 1 painting was a lion roaring, translucent over a blue sky, over a simple landscape:

I visited the Runner's Edge store in St. Catharines Ontario Canada yesterday, which has displayed many of my inspirational sports-themed paintings on consignment over the years, and in addition to picking myself up a snazzy new pair of Mizunos, I brought in 3 new pieces, two of which are fresh off the easel:

Run North 10x10" oil on panel $250, click here for more info

Run South 10x10" oil on panel $250, click here for more info

“Take and Give” is a 24x18" original acrylic painting created with the Niagara Parks' Rooted in the Garden art exhibit in mind. This event takes place September 8-10th, 2017. Please click here for more info on Rooted in the Garden event.

Against a backdrop of blossoming spring trees, three trilliums burst with images reminding us to appreciate the beauty and history of Niagara parks, while inspiring us to give back rather than just consume. Niagara Falls was an obvious choice for the central image, being a source of power, famous and rich in history, as well as an excellent symbol of give and take. Photography, shown in the left trillium, is one of many ways we can study and appreciates our parks and preserve history. The tree planting on the right celebrates new beginnings, giving and sustainability. The trilliums themselves are the flower of Ontario, and I’m always delighted if I catch them out in the spring and reminded to respect and preserve native plant life.

August 18th

I'm thrilled to be creating a live performance painting at Fort Erie Racetrack's Ladies Night event this Saturday August 19th! Races begin at 4:20, so come out and enjoy a fabulous night out with special vendors at the Ladies Night Market including Thirty One, Pampered Chef, Arbonne, Avon, Organo Gold Coffee and many more. Sweet treats for the first 200 ladies! Draw prizes include designer handbags and more! Free Tiki Bar concert after the races with Madmen. Visit forterieracing.com for more info.

The 36x24" horse racing themed painting will be hung in their dining room upon completion. Click here to see live performance paintings completed by Melani Pyke!

August 22nd Update:

The evening went well Saturday, and the painting turned out well. It was fun meeting folks at the track, and sharing my painting with them.

See this inspiring new 24x30" painting on canvas this Saturday June 3rd during the opening of the Artist Discovery Exhibit at the Bell Tower in Fort Erie Ontario.

Here are some of my thoughts on this oil painting as I planned out the composition:

Jesus is the way to the Father. The curtain reminds us of the temple curtain which was torn in two the moment that Jesus died, making a way for us to enter God's kingdom.

The hands and the baby symbolize two different things to me:

1. The baby is Jesus, sent by God into the world as a newborn.

2. The baby is you or me. We are God's children and He receives us and holds us in His hands.

John chapter 14 verse 6 in the New Testament says, "Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

What does this painting say to you? I'd love to hear from you. Please click here to contact Melani Pyke.

More info about this Melani Pyke painting here.

Thanks and have a blessed day!

Mel

Please click here for more information on this painting by Melani Pyke

Here is my day's work (in addition to responding to emails, a client meeting, and preparing for the two classes I will be teaching tomorrow.)

I enjoyed the warm weather and a challenging wind today, painting the exterior of the two Tim Hortons restaurants on Garrison Road in Fort Erie Ontario. Camp Day is the amazing fundraiser they do every year to help send kids to camp. Please support your local Tim Hortons camp day on the 31st!