Melissa Haney Art

06/17/2026

Things that inspire me . . . .

06/09/2026

I made a free poppy painting tutorial… and honestly, I almost didn’t share it.

Because it’s simple. No fancy setup. Just watercolor, paper, and a quiet little moment to create.

Every time I paint poppies, I’m reminded that most people don’t need more pressure to be “good at art.”

They just need a place to start.

So I turned it into a free step-by-step tutorial.

If you’ve ever thought:
“I’m not really an artist… but I wish I was,”
this is for you.

Grab it here: https://melissastudio.wixforms.com/f/7466310989969884320

And if you paint it, I really want to see it.

Create a form and start a conversation.

06/06/2026

A few years ago, at a fine art festival, a woman stopped by my booth and purchased a small painting. Throughout the weekend, she kept coming back - not to buy anything else, but simply to look.

At one point, she apologized and said she hoped I didn't mind her returning so often and then she told me something I'll never forget.

She said my paintings made her happy. That they felt joyful and innocent. "They have a sweetness about them," she said. She explained that spending time in my booth felt like stepping into a happier place.

Of all the compliments I've received over the years, that one has stayed with me. Creating art that brings a little more joy, light, and beauty into someone's day is exactly why I paint.

06/05/2026

This poppy painting started with a blank sheet of paper, a few watercolor paints, and a simple idea.

One of my favorite things about watercolor is watching a painting slowly come to life, one brushstroke at a time.

If you'd like to see the entire process, I've created a free video lesson that walks you through it step by step.

Watch the class here: https://melissastudio.wixforms.com/f/7466310989969884320

06/05/2026

Fresh from the easel and now available on the website - three new original paintings looking for their forever homes.

Each piece tells its own quiet story and is ready to bring a little beauty and joy to your space.
Browse the collection and see which one captures your heart.

Available now for local purchase.

06/05/2026

You cannot define art, you reveal yourself through it.

Your work reflects your character, your values, your joys, and the way you experience the world. Every painting, every sketch, every creation offers a glimpse into the heart of its maker.

Art tells your story in ways words often cannot.

You do not define art - art defines you; it reveals you. The art you create is a reflection of who you are.

06/05/2026

A few years ago, I started painting poppies for an out-of-state art festival.

I loved painting them, and to my surprise, they sold very quickly.

A few years later, a friend of mine was visiting someone's home in that same area. As she walked into the dining room, she stopped in her tracks.

Hanging on the wall was one of my poppy paintings.

My friend pointed to it and said, "Wait... I know that artist!"

The homeowner looked surprised and asked, "How do you know Melissa?"

My friend laughed and said, "She's a friend of mine."

The homeowner replied, "I bought that painting at an art festival years ago."

It's such a small world.

I love thinking about all the places those poppy paintings have ended up over the years and the homes where they're still bringing joy.

Poppies have remained one of my favorite flowers to paint, and I'd love to show you how I paint them.

I've created a FREE step-by-step watercolor poppy class that you can enjoy from the comfort of home.

Grab the free class here: https://melissastudio.wixforms.com/f/7466310989969884320

I can't wait to paint with you!

06/04/2026

There are thousands of flowers you can paint, but I keep coming back to poppies.
Maybe it's their bright color.

Maybe it's their crinkled petals.

Or maybe it's because they seem both delicate and strong at the same time.

Whatever the reason, they're one of my favorite watercolor subjects.

If you'd like to learn how I paint them, I've created a free video lesson just for you.

Get the free class here: https://melissastudio.wixforms.com/f/7466310989969884320

06/03/2026

My next in-person class is just around the corner! This class is perfect for adult beginners as well as artists with some experience.
Saturday, June 20, 2:00-4:00
Sign up here: https://www.melissahaneyart.com/product-page/whispers-in-the-meadow

10/08/2025

I went to the WTAMU Symphony Homecoming concert this weekend to hear my daughter play violin. It was a classic rock pops concert — the first time I’ve ever heard her play Led Zeppelin and Billy Joel!

Totally out of her comfort zone, but so fun to watch. It reminded me how much good comes from trying something new — in art and in life. Creativity loves courage. ❤

(WTAMU is my alma mater, so sitting in that concert hall felt like coming full circle)