Melissa Derum is a Sydney-based ceramic artist whose practice is deeply informed by site, colour and environment. During her residency with EAR, Melissa immersed herself in the landscapes and community of Edenhope, drawing inspiration from the local context to inform the development of a new body of work for exhibition.

Working through sketching, modelling and prototype-making, Melissa used the residency period to develop concepts and experiment with forms before progressing toward the creation of final ceramic pieces. Her practice reflects a strong connection between place and material, with the surrounding environment playing a central role in shaping both process and outcome.