🦋 Hi, I’m Marissa — a self-taught watercolor artist, photographer, and creative soul. I’ve wandered and lived throughout the Western United States with my family, and we have been in transition for the past several months to find our new Home.

Over the years, I’ve been a teacher, a full-time mom, the owner of a handmade soap company, and a lifelong photographer.

Now, at 50, I’m embracing life as an artist and illustrator.

For the past 14 years, my creative focus has centered around painting and drawing. My style is playful and childlike—full of whimsical details, little lines, and inviting colors. I’m always on the lookout for the tiny things, both inside and around us, that give us that deep, cozy sense of home.

My work tells gentle, magical stories about nature, cozy places, and the warmth of belonging. I paint homes, botanicals, birds, and a little imaginary land I call Tiny World—complete with its own travel agency.

I dream of creating children’s books, prints, stationery, fabric, illustrated maps—and especially puzzles. Most of my current work is personal, created by hand.

I write a monthly newsletter called "From the Bee Cave", and another mid month blog called "I Draw Home".

Recently I’ve taken classes through, The Good Ship Illustration, and other creative platforms, but also have a degree in Behavioral Science and Elementary Education, always learning and growing.

On any given day, you’ll probably find me outside in the sunshine, chasing clouds, picking wildflowers, or walking and birdwatching with my dog Nori and my turtle Toby and any family members who want to join in.

Nature and the small, often overlooked corners of life inspire me — a bird on a branch, a forgotten garden gate, or even a bee flying down a tiny pathway leading somewhere new.

🌼 Welcome to my Tiny World.