Meet Nerissa

Artist. Traveler. Teacher. Creative Recycler.

Hello! I’m Nerissa Alford, the artist behind Nerissa Alford Designs.
Over the past two decades, I’ve turned my military family’s frequent relocations into art adventures. I’ve lived in 5 countries and gathered global inspiration, memories, and ephemera along the way.

I specialize in mixed media; layering recycled items, using traditional supplies in unexpected ways, and weaving personal mementos into one-of-a-kind art pieces.

I teach small-group classes around Washington, DC, helping others find their creative spark using everyday materials. My motto: Accessible Creativity for All.

Let’s make something beautiful from the discarded.

Fun Facts

Lived in: Kuwait, Turkey, South Korea, Germany, USA

Favorite art material: watercolor & paper

Art motto: “There are no mistakes in art-only happy accidents.” (Thanks, Bob Ross). I traveled nearly every weekend for 2.5 years while living in Germany.

I cherish the list of cities, towns & villages I photographed.