raised in a socio-economic family setting with self-taught folk artists, she is 4th generation with a studio art practice in sculpture and intaglio printmaking since the age of 19.  Melissa launched a first run book  'in loving tribute' to mothers and daughters.  A devotion to the arts that is a deeply woven fabric made by a beautiful self-taught, primitive folk painter of Pennsylvania Dutch (German) heritage.  In celebration of the 500th year of Martyrs' Mirror, illuminated manuscripts and folk art in a popular culture; this book is devoted to 5 generations of  Women in Folk Art with historical, generational artistry and creative genius.