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

Melissa Cole - Artist blacksmith with over 25 years experience based in the Pewsey Vale near Marlborough, Wiltshire, England. Making hand made contemporary designed ironwork for the home and garden from forged steel and wrought iron. . Commissions taken for bespoke gates, railings and public and private sculptures. Private tutor running blacksmithing and sculptural metalwork courses from her forge in Wiltshire. https://linktr.ee/melissacole001