I am a glass and enamel artist, based in the Midlands. I began my journey with through learning enamelling; using a kiln through trial and error I was able to explore the alchemy of taking a powdered glass and then fusing it onto metal. This developed into my current work in fused glass, using frit, enamel and sheet glass to explore texture and form. I am inspired by the world around me, and during the past year I have used my glass work to explore the world around me as a way to escape and travel, which due to COVID restrictions has not been possible in real life. Having spent my childhood by the sea, memories of that time are reflected in my work. I use my skills as a primary and early years specialist to connect with most ages during glass and enamel workshops, via hands-on demonstrations. I have worked with schools and community groups to create collaborative projects, sharing the magic of glass and enamel with new artists. I also offer demonstrations for different groups such as the WI, Art Societies and University Groups. In addition to this, I've run workshops and away days for businesses and co working spaces. My drive to push boundaries by exploring the limits of the material is one of the things that I love most about working with glass. Sharing this love as an instructor, and encouraging the next generation to craft, through the creation of jewellery, blown glass pieces and flamework crafted beads is my mission for Melissa’s Melting Pot. I have a range of functional work such as jewellery and homeware, in addition to artwork and wall hangings.