about me
Hello! I am Marissa Hernandez, an artist/muralist from Des Moines, Iowa.
A large portion of my work focuses on identity. Growing up in a low-income household, and the daughter of a Mexican immigrant, I struggled to fit in with the upper middle-class white population around me. Low-income BIPOC/children of immigrants often carry the weight of securing financial success for their families, with little time to explore their passions. For most of my life that was my identity; the unassuming child of an immigrant who does well in school with plans of working in a STEM field. Creativity was always just a fun pastime for me. In college, I rekindled my passion for art, and with my parents’ blessing, took a chance on pursuing art as a career.
My practice focuses on murals and illustration. By utilizing these mediums, I aim to make my art accessible to diverse audiences, ensuring representation and visibility for historically overlooked communities. My murals transform public spaces, forging connections between the artwork and the people who encounter it. Meanwhile, my use of social media allows me to share my work beyond geographic boundaries, expanding dialogue on the importance of inclusive representation in art.
My work celebrates BIPOC communities while advocating for greater equity in the art world and society at large.
Through collaborative projects, I ensure that each mural or artwork tells a meaningful, and authentic story. I believe in the power of art to foster connection, spark dialogue, and inspire change. By engaging with local residents, students, and organizations, I ensure that every project is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a beacon of affirmation for the BIPOC community.
I strive to make art accessible and empowering, cultivating environments that are inclusive, educational, and visually compelling. My projects encompass a wide range of mediums, from large-scale murals to childrens books. No matter the medium; my commitment to representation remains unwavering.