About Melissa

Hello there! My name is Melissa, but you can call me Mel!

For over 40 years, I have had pen in hand as a constant doodler, but it wasn’t until 2016 that I began to draw or paint - most days - with intention. Is it cliché to say that I’ve always dreamed of being an artist? Probably, but that’s my story. Fear of failure held me back. But one day, my fear of never painting finally overtook my fear of looking stupid. And then I found watercolors! I was immediately hooked by their finicky magic and could not put the paintbrush down.

I am self-taught and currently spend each day in my basement studio making up for lost time. The majority of my work is watercolor and acryla gouache, but I want to try it all! I have completed three local murals and have two more large-scale murals lined up. Right now, I am working on bold, graphicky florals and geometric patterns, and trying to scale up to larger pieces.

Basically, I try to create or learn something every day. It connects me to others in ways I could not have foreseen, and I think that has been the best part of (finally) living a creative, genuine life.

I live in Charleston, West Virginia with my husband, Steve, cat, Noelle, puppy, Ginger, and enjoy visits from our 5 adult kids when they are home from their various schools. I am a chatty introvert who loves chocolate, long walks, and art supplies! Drop me a note here if you'd like to discuss a special project or commission!

xo,

Mel