Dear Della Melissa Stephens Jurors Award

My paintings are heartfelt abstractions inspired by reallife stories and experiences. Compassion, hope, gratitude, and soul-searching guide my work, fostering reflection and introspection. I infuse layers of color, asemic writing, and hand-written text to express my deepest feelings. Dried flowers symbolize memories and moments in time. I’m passionate about making art accessible and teaching viewers about encaustic painting. When shared, my goal to connect with others through art is complete.

You can view Melissa’s work at www.mascreations.com www.instagram.com/melissa_stephens1016 www.facebook.com/melissastephens1016

Dear Della

Beeswax, damar resin, dried daffodils and pressed flower petals, embedded papers, graphite on cradle board

10 x 10 x 2.25 in