Melanie began beading in 1980 in Taos, NM; working with tiny chevron and cut glass beads. First learning to weave traditional peyote and brick stitch, and eventually gravitating to stringing techniques, using semi-precious and vintage beads.

 

Her art and beadwork have been shown in a number of galleries and displayed in juried shows. A lover of words, she often incorporates partial stories into her mixed media pieces. 

 

She has taught art, beading, songwriting, and creative writing to children and adults.