About Arctic Poppy Designs

Hello! I’m Melissa, the artist behind Arctic Poppy Designs. Originally from Alaska, I now call Utah home, where the vast landscapes of both places continue to inspire my work. Growing up in Alaska, the rugged mountains and natural beauty helped to shape my creative vision, and I still carry that sense of awe and adventure with me in the designs I create. From mountain-inspired jewelry to playful, hand-stamped keychains and accessories, my designs reflect both the serene and lighthearted sides of life, infused with the spirit of the outdoors. Arctic Poppy Designs was named in memory of my grandpa, who always encouraged my creativity. When I was young, we would pick poppies together and make arrangements for my grandma—a memory I hold very close to my heart. The name has continued to evolve alongside my life, taking on an even deeper meaning. I now see the Arctic poppy as a metaphor for the human experience. Even in the coldest, most barren landscapes, this delicate flower finds a way to bloom. The Arctic poppy’s quiet resilience mirrors the human spirit: even in the hardest moments, we find ways to endure, thrive, and create beauty in unexpected places. In 2017, I experienced sudden hearing loss and became hard of hearing. This change transformed both my life and my art. Now, I cherish connection in new ways—through collaboration with other artists, through quiet moments of reflection, and through the creative process that allows me to share my story.Read their story