Welcome.  I'm Melissa, multi-generational artist, raised in one family setting with Folk artists establishing studio art practices with intaglio printmaking and metal sculpture yet I'm always painting thanks to a deep rooted philosophy that my mom instilled in me early on.  I'm 4th generation to a Pennsylvania Dutch German heritage and tradition.  I trained with experimental printmakers, after finding Robert Blackburn in 1988.  I hold a Masters in Printmaking from Slade School of Art, University College London,  (1993-95) studying alongside late Prof. Bartolomeu cid dos Santos in the Tavira Print Workshop, Stanley Jones of Curwen, external accessor Norman Ackroyd and Dan Welden. 

I print on canvas, wood, plastic and metal.  Metal sculpture art fabricates how I see it through the lens of a printmaker with viscosity for sound and light.  Partner to Bertoia Studio, I collaborate with Val Bertoia for 30 years.  We stand together for curiosity and experimentation with art.  I hold 2 beloved studio art practices and recently published my first book called Everyday Art, Folk Art in the 3rd run!  I have two printmaking presses and a Ledeuill Paris Workshop press on it's way for Bertoia-Strawser Gong Prints.  

Art is an essentail place for listening and I'm so glad you found me here.   Please Sign Up to join my studio art practice news, special e-vites and mystery opportunities with my yearly mystery print art club!