Mel Brigg is a self-taught artist born in South Africa in 1950. His artistic career spanns three decades and multiple continents. Mel is not only known for his artistic talent but also for his strong commitment to philanthropy. He has actively supported various charitable causes and institutions in South Australia, including Child Welfare, Wildlife Trust, Save the Rhino Foundation, and exhibitions focused on political detainees. Mel settled in Australia in 1993 and continued his philanthropic efforts here, supporting organizations like the Sydney City Mission, the Variety Club of Australia, Save, and Amnesty International.
Mel Brigg’s art is characterized by a blend of textural and abstract elements with figurative imagery, resulting in paintings that are both emotive and evocative. His work often delves into the complexities of human migration, particularly addressing the experiences of those leaving Africa and asylum seekers in Australia. Central to his artistic approach are elements like light, perspective, texture, structure, and atmospheric colour, which come together to create compelling and thought-provoking works. His art reflects his deep commitment to social and environmental issues and is a testament to the power of visual storytelling in addressing important themes.
