About the Artist

Melissa Speed is a pastel artist living in Derbyshire, England.

 

A people person with an enthusiasm for history, these are frequent inspirations in her work. 

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Elected as an associate member of the Pastel Society of America in 2025, achievements to date include being longlisted for the Jackson's Painting Prize 2023 and the Ruth Borchard Self Portrait Prize 2023, as well as being chosen by judges to take part in the tenth series of Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year. She has exhibited in galleries and museums across England.

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Melissa was the project manager and artist for her county-wide project, We Are All Derbyshire, from its conception in April 2023, through its official launch in August 2024, and running until the end of June 2025. Fifteen portraits were created of sitters nominated for their contributions to their communities, which were then exhibited across the county from March to June. Alongside this, Melissa is the portrait artist for BBC Radio Derby's Make a Difference Awards.

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When she isn't in her studio, Melissa is often found exploring historic sites or writing at her desk. Winner of a Kid's Poetry Club poetry for children competition, another highlight was when one of her historical poems was adapted into a choral work by American choir Pantera. She is a staff writer for Living Medieval Magazine.

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