Melissa Nelson

With an Art History minor in college, Melissa embarked on a career as a writer and editor, followed by 15 years in Finance, followed by 20 years as Executive Director of several nonprofit organizations. During all these unlikely careers she took art classes at night or on weekends at the Denver Art Museum, Metro State College and the Denver Art Students’ League.

Finally retiring in 2014, she was able to join the fledgling Vail Valley Art Guild’s workshops and begin painting and drawing with many talented (and becoming talented!) local artists. The Guild gave her the opportunity to show her work in four galleries, all Eagle County libraries, and at Colorado Mountain College's juried annual Vail Valley Fine Art Show. Other careers along the way have enabled her to step into the role of Board President, Treasurer and grant writer of this wonderful all-volunteer organization. Melissa has recently embarked on a project to add therapeutic arts and working with the underserved communities in Eagle County to her role as President. She hopes you will also join VVAG and help us grow.