Graduating in 1993 with a BA (Hons) in Art Education Studies from The University of Wales, Melissa embarked on a successful full time career working with her chosen medium of sculpture made predominantly using traditional forging techniques.  Trained as a traditional blacksmith by her father Hector Cole MBE FWCB, Melissa started making bespoke domestic iron work for private homes and hotels; curtain poles, window furniture, lighting, gates and railings are still made to order.  Awarded a Setting Up Grant from ACE in 2001 allowed Melissa to get new equipment for her own forge in Savernake Forest.  Her forge is now in the Pewsey Vale. In 2007 Melissa was awarded a prestigious 'Bronze Medal' from The Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths in recognition of the blacksmithing skills seen in her public and private work and the successful forging-in-schools projects. This makes Melissa a Fellow of The Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths and she is regarded as a Master Blacksmith an

Biography COMMISSIONS 2019       Ridgeway Farm Art Project, Purton, Wiltshire for Taylor Wimpey, Stanford In The Vale, Oxfordshire, village arts trail project.  2018       DNA sculpture for Cosmic Walk at Winchester University.  Moravian Star sculpture project, Malmesbury, Wilts. Private commission, large garden sculptures, Wiltshire. 2017        Decorative window panels for a Sir John Soanes designed private house in Wiltshire. 2016        Seaside handrail, Bridport, Private client. Decorative grape vine support, private garden. Rose arbour, private commission. 2015        Latchways PLC   Seasonal greetings product of a limited presentation edition of 500 copper feathers for world wide distribution.  ‘Wishing Dish’ Bronze bowl for private clients. 2014        Cherwell College, Student Accommodation decorative screening panels to entrance wall based on brain neurons. Private commission- Fern Gate.  Private commission – Water mill gate.  Private Commission – Altar Cross a

Hello and Happy New Year to you all!  I hope that 2020 brings you joy and peace and adventures to share – like getting involved in this project! The next ‘Walk n Talk’ is   Sunday 19 th  January 2020   meet 11am outside school  Wrap up warm, bring friends, dogs, coffee, chocolate!   We will be reviewing progress so far and this is the last chance to bring in art work for the MAP that I am currently working on. Since we last met on site, there have been developments on the hill with ‘Trim Trail’ components built into the area. This makes it a less suitable location for a seat so I am focusing on the entrance sign  at the west end of the development.           I like this open location on the left as you approach from Purton.  The grass area is set back from the path and road and will not be obscured by trees in the future.  It is visible as you walk, cycle or drive from Cowleaze, Upper Ox Hill, House Field, Marsh Close and Stepstones. I welcome your comments abo