Under the Red Umbrella

Fran Melton is an artist who seeks to inspire others through her vibrant use of colour, bringing a sense of peace, connection, and joy surrounding both people and nature. Working primarily in watercolour, her paintings are fresh, simple, and bold, often exploring themes of the feminine form, landscapes, and still life.

As a carer for a family member with significant mental health challenges, Fran understands the struggles many face in daily life, empathising deeply with those in supportive roles. For her, painting is both restorative and therapeutic - a quiet space for reflection that nurtures her wellbeing. Whether in her studio or in nature, she is grateful for the opportunity to do what she loves and share positivity through her art.

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For me, the lady under the red umbrella symbolises the importance of protecting your personal space and setting boundaries to care for your emotional well-being. Her gentle gaze and cupped hands suggest mindfulness and reflection. She shelters from the world beneath a vibrant red umbrella, surrounded by objects of beauty, nature, and necessities that fulfill her practical needs. This painting is my personal, imagined world - where time feels paused and a beautiful stillness reigns.