2024 is off to a magnificent start as our team grows and expands! Melissa has joined Fifth Street as our newest studio tech. She is a talented photographer with a keen artistic eye.
We're so excited to have her join our team and we can't wait for you to meet her.
Here's a head start on getting to know her better:
Tell us a bit about your creative background and your journey as an artist thus far.
I grew up watching the women in my life craft. Stained glass, scrapbooking, gardening, embroidery, quilting, knitting, painting—you name it—my sister, mother, and grandmothers were always creating. Watching them put love and care into masterpieces and heirlooms made me want to do just the same. I graduated from the University of Montevallo with a Bachelor of Fine Arts and minor in Art History and Business. Photography was my concentration as a student but I’ve always loved exploring different art forms. I love black and white portraiture and am inspired by the works of early artists that were first discovering photography as an art form. I love trying new mediums and find that my perspective as an artist becomes stronger the more I learn.
What are you most excited to learn about pottery? What experience do you have with pottery so far?
I am just excited to create! I took a few ceramics classes in college and loved working with clay. It’s been a few years since I was last behind a wheel. I’m very excited to flex that muscle again and enjoy the journey of learning. I’m looking forward to learning alongside other newcomers to the medium!
What drew you to the studio and what do you hope to experience/see/feel in the studio in 2024?
I was so interested in being a part of the team here at Fifth Street Studio because I get to be surrounded by creativity and artists every single day! What a dream!!! All of my coworkers have welcomed me with open arms and I’m so lucky to be supported by such a lovely group!
What should people know about you or what should they ask you about if they see you in the studio?
Ask me about my cat, Chili, my pride and joy!! Ask me about my husband, to see photos from my wedding (only if you have 4 hours lol), my plants, my Pinterest board. What projects I’m working on, what are my favorite pieces of art, what I’m feeling inspired by. Tell me about what brought you to the world of pottery!
Say hi to Melissa when you see her in the studio next!