Melissa Moore Root admits to enjoying drawing and cartooning in school when she should have been listening in class. An Alabama native living in Mobile, Melissa earned a BFA at Auburn University, concentrating on drawing and printmaking. Additionally, she took technical courses that enabled her to work as graphic designer. Working as an art director in the Advertising and Public Relations fields, she was active in her local Ad Federation, winning several citations and awards. At times, she has taught graphic design courses at Spring Hill College and the University of South Alabama. Her “fine art” took a backseat until her daughter graduated from high school and went to college.

Melissa developed an enthusiasm for pastels after a workshop, taught in Mobile. The instructor, Robert E. Frank, graciously fit her into his schedule as a private student. In years following, she has enjoyed pastel workshops with Nancy King Mertz and Sally Strand. She enjoys painting in oil and pastel and has drunk the plein air “Kool-aid”.
She participates in plein air events along the Gulf Coast with much enthusiasm.