Hi! I'm Marissa, Designer & Artist based in Colorado.

My background in ecology and visual storytelling shaped my passion for creating meaningful connections between people and their environments.

Growing up on a farm and studying environmental science, I developed an appreciation for heritage, landscapes, and the systems that shape our world. That same curiosity led me to create work that bridges digital and physical spaces. Whether I’m crafting a photography narrative or developing a website, my goal is to design thoughtful experiences that feel tactile and tell a bigger story.

Following the Work That Felt Right

Working across media, retail, and design industries has shaped my perspective as an artist. These experiences deepened my understanding of storytelling, craftsmanship, and user experience—three threads that run through all my work. My experience in media production taught me how to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences, while my time in retail and product design revealed how to create enduring, meaningful products. As a designer, I’ve learned how to create work that invites more play and accessibility. Today, I draw from this nonlinear path and help bring creative visions to life.

The Joy of Observation

The desire for connection started at an early age. At six years old, my parents gave me a DIY butterfly pavilion. This tall mesh box was placed in my living room for weeks, allowing me to watch each caterpillar as it transformed into its final form. Having this unique view of the insects rocked my world; it was like having VIP tickets to Mother Nature's show. In the end, I had to release the butterflies, which made me unhappy because I practically saw them as my own children. Although I was sad at the time, that experience helped me discover the joy of observation and building small worlds.

Build With What You Have

My love for world-building evolved on my family’s farm in Colorado, where creativity was a way of life. I learned that creativity isn't about what you lack, but about making the most of the resources available to you. We built absurd, ingenious contraptions out of whatever we had—old car parts, computers, fabric remnants. I loved how these inventions developed their own personality and challenged us to solve problems in new ways.

That same approach—experimenting and iterating through collaboration—guides my work today. Whether I’m designing digital experiences or visual identities, I approach each project with a deep focus on narrative, place, and experimentation, always with the goal of making the work feel personal.