Along with Michael Benson, she is Co-Founder of Candlestar, a company that specialises in the creation and development of
major new international
cultural initiatives including the Gulf Art Fair (now Art Dubai) and the Prix Pictet.
Prior to joining Art Agency, Partners, for more than 12 years, Melissa worked at Lower Manhattan
Cultural Council (LMCC), where she played a leadership role in the development, administration, and artistic direction of
major initiatives such as LMCC's Arts Center at Governors Island, the River To River Festival, and the organization's Artist Residency programs.