Maiya was born in Washington Dc and grew up in Long Island, New York; two cities that are immersed in individuality and creativity. She always had love for creating long before she picked up a brush and found a passion for painting. At the age of 16 she decided to journey on into the world of art, eventually becoming a self-taught artist all before the age of 20.

Through various style, color and mediums such as oil, acrylic & mixed media; Maiya depicts the beauty of being an African american woman. Through her paintings she hopes to change the stereotypical image of what beauty “should” portray, all while engaging with the uncomfortable thought of exploitation. Exploiting the feminine body, yet positively and seeking rawness in what society deem to be flaws. Although her work is often considered misunderstood, it engages question of societal issues, beauty and self. Maiya’s work challenges the stigma of not only African american women unrealistic standards, but women altogether. As she continues to create & seek different routes of inspiration, celebrating the female essence will always be a highlight within her body of work.

She plans to one day be able to evolve her talents and values as a young African American woman into activities that promote art and therapy. Ultimately allowing urban creatives & the youth enough creative liberation to live a life based off passion, and the arts.

Freelance. NY based.

“Art has consumed my life, and my meaning of it in just a few years. I see art in everything from the way we dance to how we write our grocery list. To live, is an art. And my goal is to show people the art in existing.

It took me a while to find what I loved to paint, and once I did.. I realized it was all I ever knew.

I want every women no matter color, shape or size to see my work, and see a reflection of themselves. I want my art to show them the beauty in what they never may have or haven’t deemed beautiful and exploit it, positively. As long as my work sparks an ounce of self love, courage and empowerment, I’m doing my job. “

-Maiya Mulan