Meet Melissa Brown: The Glass Artist Who Turned Passion Into a Full-Time Journey
If you’re ever in need of a little color, joy, and inspiration in your life, look no further than Melissa Brown. This talented glass artist has been creating beautiful, vibrant pieces since 1989, and her art is as much about the journey as it is the end product. At 56 years old, Melissa has lived and breathed art for decades, but her proudest moment came in 2005 when she made the brave decision to leave corporate America behind and dive headfirst into a full-time artistic career. And she’s never looked back!
Inspired by Life’s Simple Wonders
For Melissa, inspiration is everywhere. "Nature, animals, people, and life experiences—these things inspire me," she says. Whether it’s the vibrant colors in the world around her, a meaningful interaction, or simply a moment of reflection, Melissa takes it all in and transforms it into something that speaks to the soul.
Her work is filled with meaning and color, each piece telling its own story. But it’s not just about the art itself—it’s about the joy and positivity she hopes to share with others. “I hope my work makes people smile and sparks some joy and inspiration,” Melissa says. Her Hallelujah Ladies mosaics, in particular, hold a special place in her heart. Created to celebrate victories, give thanks, and mark special occasions, these mosaics are a testament to her belief in the power of gratitude and joy.
The Journey to Full-Time Artistry
Making the leap from corporate life to full-time artistry wasn’t easy. In fact, Melissa was met with doubt and skepticism from many when she decided to leave the stability of her corporate job. "I was told I would never financially survive, that it was foolish to leave my steady paycheck," she recalls. But instead of letting the negativity hold her back, she used it as fuel to prove herself.
And prove herself she did! Melissa’s decision to follow her heart has led her to a life filled with creativity and passion. "My only regret is not doing it sooner," she admits. Now, every day is a new opportunity to do something she absolutely loves. And she’s sharing that love with the world, one glass mosaic at a time.
How Long Does It Take? Well, It Depends!
If you ask Melissa how long it takes to complete a piece, she’ll tell you: "It’s a trick question!" Her studio is always filled with different projects in various stages, so there’s never a set timeline for completion. Some pieces come together quickly, while others take a little more time and patience. But no matter the length of time, Melissa is always driven by her passion to create.
A Growing List of Accolades
Melissa’s work has earned her well-deserved recognition over the years. In 2023, she took home a First Place Blue Ribbon in Creative Arts at the State Fair of Texas/Dallas. She’s also been featured in numerous publications and news outlets, including KLTV7 News, KETK56, IN Magazine, and County Line Magazine. Her perseverance as an artist has even been highlighted in stories such as "Perseverance Through Art & Through Cancer."
Where to Find Melissa’s Work
You can check out Melissa’s vibrant glass art online through her Facebook page, Dragonfly Art Studio TX. If you're in the area, you can also see her work in person at the Edom Art House or at the Winnsboro Center for the Arts Annex Shop. Whether you’re looking for a colorful piece to brighten your home or a meaningful gift, Melissa’s creations are sure to bring joy to anyone who sees them.
Why Edom Art House?
Melissa’s journey to Edom Art House started with a simple connection to Justin Brown, a friendly, positive artist with a vision for the future of Edom. “I met Justin a few years ago, and I knew instantly I was going to keep in touch with him,” she says. When Edom Art House came into being, Melissa was excited to join the community of talented artists and contribute her own work to the vibrant space.
Edom has always held a special place in her heart, and the collection of artists at the Art House makes the experience even more unique. "The positive spirit and vision that Justin brings to Edom are contagious," she says. And for Melissa, it’s not just about selling her art—it’s about connecting with a like-minded community and continuing to grow both as an artist and a person.
A Life Well Lived, Through Art
Melissa’s journey as an artist is a beautiful example of what happens when you follow your heart and embrace the adventure. She’s proof that when you trust your passions and take that leap of faith, the universe will reward you with opportunities to do what you love every single day.
So, whether you're looking for a piece that celebrates a special moment or simply want to brighten your day with a splash of color, Melissa Brown's glass art is sure to inspire. Her work is a reflection of her life—bright, meaningful, and full of heart.
