Melissa Hughes
Development Executive

Melissa has worked in different areas of the arts sector since graduating – initially in publishing, then rural touring, organising the launch event for UK Young Artists, public art, and then in the world of antiques. Alongside her work at Earthen Lamp, Melissa works for the Friends of Birmingham Museums and edits their quarterly magazine, ‘Artefacts’. Melissa also volunteers as a Board Member for the Friends of Myton Pool.

Melissa has a Masters degree in Art History and a First Class BA Joint Honours Degree in Art History and English Studies.

In her spare time Melissa enjoys spending time with her family and friends, walking, running and cooking.

A funny joke you recently heard?

‘Cheese’ jokes are our favourites – and so I know lots of them!
What type of cheese is made backwards? Edam.
What does the cheese say when it looks in the mirror? Halloumi.
What type of cheese would you use to coax a bear out of a tree? Camembert.
Which cheese do you use to disguise a small horse? Mascarpone.
I have so many more…!

I’m obsessed with… 

Organising, planning and writing lists!

In my spare time I…

enjoy cooking and spending time with my family.

What three things would you never leave the house without?

My phone, keys and dextrose tablets (crucial for me as a type 1 diabetic)

What are you currently reading?

I have a 3 year old, so I seem to spend my time reading books selected by her – so currently Thomas the Tank Engine, Zog and Elmer… (!)

What film/book (s) has influenced you the most?

I love losing myself in a film but I am afraid that I definitely can’t just pick one for this!