Rising Stars: Meet Melissa Alfaro of Phoenix

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Alfaro.

Hi Melissa, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Ever since I can remember, I’ve been captivated by art. There’s just something magical about turning a thought or idea into a world of possibilities. But for the longest time, I kept that love ticked away, unsure if anyone else would get it. The turning point? When I inspired someone close to me to start sharing their art. Seeing them light up as others connected with their creativity made me think: Why am I not doing the same?

About four years ago, I really began discovering who I am and embracing my passion for everything whimsical and wonderful. I realized that life is way more fun when you let your inner kid come out to play.

After COVID, when so many of us felt isolated and disconnected, putting my art out there helped me push my own boundaries. It gave me the confidence to share more of myself and, in turn, connect with people who resonate with the playful, imperfect, and heartwarming nature of what I create.

It started with sharing my art via Instagram with loved ones, to randomly leaving bits of art at coffee shops to brighten someone’s day and then finally gathering the courage to get my license to vend, where I now share my bits of joy with others at local art markets in Downtown Phoenix!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Building my small art business hasn’t been easy. No one really tells you how to get through all the nitty gritty business side of things or even how to really start putting yourself out there. I kind of just referenced what other artists I follow through YouTube did and crossed my fingers everything would work out. Once I got my bearings with that side of the business I faced quite a bit of self-doubt. I felt as if I stood out too much in certain markets- like I didn’t quite fit “the scene”. My art is more playful, colorful and whimsical that I felt others would think my art was too different or “out there” and sometimes it was, and when I first started I didn’t have many people stopping by to look at what I had to share and it really made me question myself.
It’s also so hard to navigate the world of Social Media. Especially in this day and age of instant gratification. I’m pretty young and I STILL feel so lost with how to be “good” at social media. Biggest lesson I’ve learned with social media is that the amount of followers DO NOT determine your worth as not only an artist, but a person too.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
So what do I do? Well, I run a delightfully odd little art business where I make polymer clay “desk buddies” adorable, colorful snails and goofy worms that most people would call “gross” or “weird”. But to me, they’re tiny reminders to embrace the unexpected and find joy in life’s quirks. I specialize in crafting these cute creatures that bring smiles to people’s faces while also serving as tiny, tangible mental health buddies. My art encourages others to rediscover the playful curiosity we tend to lose as adults.
But that’s not all! I also illustrate stickers and prints that reflect my personal journey of embracing womanhood, my Hispanic heritage, and the beautiful chaos of being human. These prints often carry gentle reminders to be kind— because let’s be honest, we’re all just lovable idiots trying to figure life out.

What am I known for? Oh, I’m proudly known as the “Worm Girl”—and I absolutely love it! There’s something hilariously heartwarming about being associated with wiggle little worms that make people grin.

I’m most proud of putting myself out there without knowing what to expect. Starting this journey meant stepping into the unknown, risking that my weird, wiggly friends might not find their people. But they did. And every smile, laugh, and “Oh my gosh, look at that worm!” Makes it worth it.

I think the biggest thing that sets me apart is that I embrace the oddballs. The things others see as weird , I turn into adorable, collectible desk companions, prints and knick knacks. I believe that when we accept and celebrate life’s quirks, we open the door to more creativity, joy, and connection.
So, if you ever need a cute little worm friend to brighten your workspace, a sticker to remind you to stay kind or just a laugh about how weird life can be I’m your gal!

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’d love to connect with others if they have a fun idea for a custom piece or if they want to team up for a creative project I am always open to hearing out what has to be offered! I’m still in the works of putting together my own website so for the time being Instagram or email works best. I am a big believer in connection and if anyone ever wants to express support, any share, like and kind word either in person at markets or on Instagram is support enough!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @happilyevermelii