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Melissa Helene, Melissa Helene Fine Arts, Wisconsin Scratchboard Artist, Wildlife Artist

I Create . . .

Black and white, photo-realistic, and highly detailed scratchboard wildlife portraits influenced by wild and endangered species from across the world.

scratchboard artwork, Melissa Helene Fine Arts

My work lives in the details and scratchboard is perfect for emphasizing the specific and fine details of a creature.

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what is scratchboard?

The Short and Simple Answer...

The scratchboard starts BLACK.

There is a layer of WHITE compressed clay underneath the black India ink.

I SKETCH the image with pencil on the board first.

I use abrasive tools to SCRATCH the black away.

Scratches are LAYERED over one another.

Different tools and techniques allow me to create specific TEXTURES.

Snow leopard, scratchboard artwork, scratchboard snow leopard, endangered species art

Your chance to WIN free artwork and special deals!

Receive giveaway dates, details, early sneak peeks, and exclusive offers right to your inbox! 

Monthly Giveaways

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Arctic wolf artwork, animal art, Melissa Helene scratchboard, scratchboard artwork

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Reproductions

Chimpanzee scratchboard, wildlife artwork, scratchboard artwork, wildlife artist

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Originals

Custom scratchboard pet portrait, dog portrait, animal art, animal artist

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Pet Portraits

Wildlife Commissions

tiger, tiger artwork, scratchboard, tiger scratchboard, scratchboard artwork, wildlife artwork

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You've Got Questions - I've Got Answers

On The Blog...

The inside look at my fine art business, deep dives into my techniques and processes, scratchboard lessons and tutorials, personal stories and updates, business tips and resources for other artists looking to build strong and sustainable creative businesses, and information about conservation issues and special initiatives within my business.

Melissa Helene's blog suggestions, scratchboard artwork
Melissa Helene Wisconsin Scratchboard Artist, Wildlife Artist, Animal Artist

"

My husband and I found Melissa at a local art fair. We love animals and anything black and white, so as you know, Melissa’s work is breathtaking. As soon as I saw online that she offered custom pet ornaments, as a surprise, I ordered one of my husband’s Australian Shepherd. I emailed her to ask a few questions and she was prompt, friendly, and provided simple clarifications. Once it was ready, she emailed the proof for me to approve.

When it arrived, the packaging was beautiful and environmentally friendly, with a professional, yet personal touch. My husband absolutely loved it and it will be a cherished gift forever.

Thank you Melissa!

Melissa Helene Fine Arts, scratchboard custom pet portraits, client testimonial

Let's Connect and Be Friends

For daily updates on my scratchboard artwork, behind the scenes peeks into my studio and life as a traveling artist, information on new series of work, special sales, pictures of my cute adventure pups, and so much more fun...

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Melissa Helene Fine Arts, Wisconsin Scratchboard artist, wildlife artist
Melissa Helene, Wisconsin scratchboard artist, artist

for supporting my small business. Our family is grateful for each and every one of you!

Thank You

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