Time Under Heaven

Artist

Melani Pyke

Artist bio

I have been creating inspirational paintings in acrylic and oil on canvas for 25 years, which are more than just decorative, they carry messages of hope and healing. Many of my pieces begin with a base of non-objective colour and texture, and end up as a delightful blend of abstract and realism, often contrasting stormy skies with peaceful subjects, reminding us that there is love and order even in a seemingly chaotic world, if we take the time to look and choose a positive outlook on life. Many of my paintings are created before live audiences at community and charity events, to the delight of viewers of all ages and walks of life. I am well known throughout the Niagara region for the public mural projects I’ve done with the cities of Welland and St. Catharines, and for an increasing number of institutions and businesses such as Tim Hortons and Safari Niagara. Originally from Brantford, Ontario, I completed University of the Nations School of Illustration program in Kona Hawaii 2001, and Mohawk College’s Graphic Design program in 2003, and currently live in Crystal Beach, Ontario, Canada.

Visual Arts 2026 Contest

Title

Medium/Genre

Painting

Artist Statement

Like so many other Engage artists, I paint to explore ideas from the Bible and express those truths visually. I aim to create images that speak to all ages and cultures; here in this piece stirring up conversation about the passage of time and God's role in the various seasons of our lives. Through the use of metaphor and layered imagery—combining abstract and realistic elements—my work reflects a modern surrealism that is easily accessible to viewers. I work in acrylic and oil on canvas.

How it fits into contest

I based the imagery in this painting on Ecclesiastes 3 (summarized by verse 1 which states “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”) Because we can trust that God has an appointed time for everything, we should be content. The painting’s colours, style and composition are to reflect this kind of peaceful order.

Like the sundial uses light to show the time of day, we can observe the effects of God’s light in the world around us and see His workings. We see seasons change throughout the year, shown here as the four outer quadrants surrounding the sundial (representing spring, summer, autumn and winter.) Seasons are represented abstractly in loose brushstrokes to remind us that although we may not see clearly, we should try to have patience with God’s processes and trust that everything has order.

The white dove is a traditional symbol of peace, so it serves as a reminder to have peace and patience in difficult seasons.
A dove is also a symbol of the Holy Spirit, so in the painting it reminds us of His presence through all seasons: God is in control regardless of any situation, working everything out in a perfect plan.

Credits

I would like to thank God for giving me the gift of creativity, and also my neighbour Mike for saving my workroom after a flood which nearly damaged this painting just after I just completed it.

How to Purchase this Artwork

The original is 16x20" oil and acrylic on canvas and is listed for sale for $950 USD on this page on my website: https://www.melpyke.com/workszoom/6403726/time-under-heaven#/
Prints are available for purchase on paper or canvas at this link too.

Other Goods & Services Available from this Artist

I paint custom artwork on canvas and also have originals and prints for sale. I also paint murals on walls and windows throughout greater Toronto and Niagara regions, Ontario, Canada. Please view my website www.melpyke.com for available artwork, and upcoming events. I can be reached by email at mel@melpyke.com