Melinda Dickson ... is described as one of this generation's promising new western artists. Her depiction of contemporary western cowboys, ranchers and the modern west strikes a familiar note with collectors. Each piece is filled with beautiful color, excitement, tradition and portrays the simple truth of today's ranching lifestyle created from life experience. Mel worked as a design draftsman and commercial artist for thirteen years before turning to a career in fine art. Her interest in western art was sparked by a visit to the Amon Carter Museum in Fort Worth in 1993. Mel studied the works of Remington and Russell, and started to paint from her "mentors". Her paintings began to sell, and after juggling both careers for several years, she left the commercial art behind last year and began to concentrate exclusively on her western art. "Some have pronounced that the cowboy era is dead and gone, but I am happy to report that, while the cross country cattle drive no longer exists, the cowboy is alive and well.

For me, cowboys and ranchers are not a romanticized ideal; they are my friends and neighbors. I have a deep appreciation for the ranching lifestyle and the values it promotes: character, integrity, diligence and humor." "With each canvas, I try to convey these values using color and light. Ultimately, my goal is to capture the essence of each moment as simply as I possibly can and transcend the viewer into my world. Fredrick Remington once said that "art is a she-devil of a mistress" - and boy, he wasn't kidding!" Mel's has participated in shows throughout the U.S. including the Texas Art Gallery Preview 2005, The Cattlemen's Western Art Show, and the Empire Ranch 100. Her work is included in both private and public collections including: The King Ranch, The Pearce Western Art Museum and the Museum Of The Gulf Coast. Aside from her membership in CPAI - Cowboy Photographers and Artists International, Mel also holds membership in AWA - Academy of Western Artists, and WAOW - Woman Artists Of The West

Outa-the-Gate