Artist Melissa Lofton was born in Carmel, California and is the daughter of Carmel artist Richard Lofton. Being raised in a richly creative environment gave Melissa an early familiarity with the artistic process and the use of materials. She attended Santa Catalina School in Monterey, University of California at Davis, and the Monterey Institute of International Studies in Monterey. A long-time resident of the Big Sur area, Lofton maintains a studio at home in Big Sur as well as one in Carmel Valley. She became a member of the Carmel Art Association in 1998.

Lofton's work reflects a deep love of nature. She draws upon imagery from the Big Sur area, the Monterey Peninsula, and from her travels. Many of her images come from her meditation and dreams. A self-confessed "chromophile", Lofton paints with vibrant color and lively imagery.