Meet Melissa:

Hi friend! I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Melissa; I’m a watercolor artist, and the face behind One Light Studio!

I was born and raised in South-central Wisconsin. I grew up in a small town, and graduated from a small, private college in the heart of Madison.

Today, I live in Lake Elmo, Minnesota where I’m surrounded by my family, pets, friends, our thriving community, and the stunning natural beauty of the St. Croix Valley.

Creating whimsical illustrations, writing thought-provoking devotions, and painting art, are my passions.

The Back-story:

I have a Bachelor of Science in Education, however, most of my adult life I’ve worked in ministry.

My faith journey has always been a large part of my life, thanks to my mom and grandparents. As a kid, I spent many years going to-and-from church events, camps, and Sunday-shenanigans . I loved it and ate up every moment of cheesy camp songs and devotional prayer.

All of these experiences led me to pursuing ministry as a career path. I’ve been a youth director, the director of children’s ministry, a director of youth and family ministry, and have shared the pulpit for a sermon, here and there. I’ve planned and led large camps and programming for youth and adults of all ages. I’ve gone through some tough moments in the church, and even questioned my faith after experiencing some spirit-crushing events that affected me personally. But, I couldn’t stay away. I continued to pursue a faith-centered life, so much so, that I made the courageous decision to begin seminary classes. But, my seminary journey was put on hold following some challenging medical stuff.

In 2023, I battled some health complications that left me feeling physically exhausted, and made day-to-day life feel strenuous. I was forced to slow down, and refrain from doing my usual, energetic activities.

Desperate for a way to keep my mind moving, I opened a set of Crayola watercolors and began painting. It wasn’t long until I realized that the physical act of putting a brush to paper, was mentally calming, and spiritually energizing. I was hooked!

Since then, I’ve dedicated my free time to embracing this creative journey, and developing One Light Studio into everything it’s become, with so much gratitude for the people and communities that have supported me along the way.

The Outcome:

My art has become a vessel of connection, reaching others, offering joy and love through colorful and inspirational work.

I’m encouraged every day by the world around me; the people and their stories of faith, struggle, accomplishments, and celebrations—It’s all a part of what drives me to create!

Why “One Light”?

It is my belief that, “everyone carry’s a light within them, and when we share our light with others, we illuminate the goodness of humanity.”

(My slogan, and a truth that I hold dear🩵)

I’m so glad you’re here. I hope that my work will inspire you to share your light with others, find joy in the everyday, and to be authentically YOU!

Thank you for your support! I hope we’ll cross paths soon.

Warmth and light,

Melissa ✨