Off the Board

Animals come to life in intricate detail through the boldness and versatility of Melissa Helene’s scratchboard art

- Melissa Helene

Protect and Nurture, scratchboard, 5 x 5 (12 x 12 cm)

This piece was part of a larger study of young animals; how their physical characteristics differ from the adults and how they interact with the older members of their species. I love the sweet moment between this kit and her mother.

Inspired by endangered species, wild places, fur, feathers and scales, my work celebrates the personalities and unique details of wild animals. Each piece features layers of detail that bring the animal off the board and create life in the static representation. These details accentuate individual characteristics of the species highlighted in my work by making them clear and distinct. My hope and goal for each of my wildlife portraits is to give them a soul that begs the viewers to see them a little deeper.

My choice to explore a world of vibrant color strictly in black and white allows me to emphasize textures, patterns and details in an intimate and unique way. Each hair is scratched in individually, every highlight in the eyes is placed with exacting precision, and whiskers are placed with intention. Imperfections in the animal are celebrated and emphasized because they make that individual special. My work is here to honor the perfect imperfections of the natural world.