Melissa began her career in art in the 1980s. She had one person shows at various Richmond, Virginia locations: Women's Resource Center at University of Richmond, Sovran Bank, Richmond Jazz Club. A 1985 Richmond Times Dispatch review of her Sovran Bank by Douglas Durden show stated that the display of her work was like viewing a multiple artist show with each piece striving to reach new limits. Her work also received a purchase award at the Hampton Roads Mall show also in the 1980s.

In order to pursue other activities, including raising a family, Melissa produced only a few pieces during the period from 1989 to 2008. However, this time period includes some key pieces such as "Gone" and "In The Dunes".

Beginning the summer of 2008, Melissa has resumed producing her work. She began displaying her work in various Richmond, Virginia libraries during the summer of 2009. The links on this web page list current and future shows in Virginia, including a one person show at Montpelier Art Center in March, 2011, and Louisa Arts Center show "Falling Into Color" from September 25 to November 20, 2009.

Education and Associations

EDUCATION:

• Classes with professional artists -- Eleanor Cox
• Post-B.S. Art Classes at various schools -- University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, John Tyler Community College
• B.S. University of Illinois, major in Biology

ASSOCIATIONS:

• Bon Air Artists Association (2009 to 2010) Exhibiting Member in both Drawing and Mixed Media