Mel Aliendi Painter

A teacher by profession, Mel’s journey with a paintbrush only began six years ago: “I am a creative person and was looking for something to do, a new hobby, so I signed up for some local art classes in South Hobart and it just snowballed from there,” Mel explains.

“I paint because it is enjoyable. I love the physicality of paint — the texture, the movement, the feeling of loading up a brush and simply going for it. Painting also satisfies my curious mind. I’m not afraid of a blank canvas; that is often the easiest stage. The play begins, and curiosity quickly follows — along with the challenging middle part and answering the question of ‘when is it finished?’

Being curious about my own painting habits and observing my process has given insight into my practice and offers a glimpse into that elusive thing called creativity. Staying open to the unknown and having a playful spirit is enough for now. Those are the feelings that keep leading me back to the canvas.” – Mel Aliendi 2026