We caught up with the brilliant and insightful MUKA a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
MUKA, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I believe this question has an infinitely evolving answer. Purpose, to me, is never just one thing at any given time. Some days, my purpose is just to exist. Some days, my purpose is to be the best artist I can be. Some days, it’s to be as selfless as I can be, etc. I’ve learned to not put any pressure on myself to find any one “purpose” in life because then I just feel stuck. When I first decided to become a professional artist, I painted myself into this box where that was what defined me. I felt like, “Well, I’m an artist and my purpose in life is to create” and so when I wasn’t feeling particularly creative or pumping out work, I felt lost. Slowly, I realized that each day, even each moment, can have it’s own purpose. As long as I am being true to myself and doing what honors my mind and body, then I feel fulfilled and like I am meeting my current purpose.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
In my journey as a professional fine artist, I’ve found my artistic voice in creating bold and colorful pieces that resonate with mental health journeys and authenticity. My work is a channel for expressing what words often cannot capture. My motto, “If you can’t say it, paint it,” encapsulates this sentiment.
My career began in Los Angeles, where I am proudly represented by ShockBoxx Gallery. Over the years, my art has found a global audience, connecting with collectors from diverse corners of the world. Alongside my own artistic pursuits, I’ve had the privilege of jurying numerous group shows and curating exhibitions.
Now, having made the move to Houston, I’m excited to bring my skills and experiences to this vibrant artistic community. I look forward to contributing my unique perspective and creativity to the thriving arts scene here, continuing to explore the depths of emotion and human experience through my art.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Throughout my journey as a professional artist, three qualities have been instrumental: resilience, dedication, and self-awareness. Resilience has been vital in facing harsh criticism and the inevitable rejections that come with this field. Knowing your worth and understanding that each ‘no’ is a stepping stone is key to building resilience.
Dedication fuels the drive to persist even on the toughest days when creativity seems elusive. It becomes the anchor that keeps your career progressing, propelling you forward when you have zero energy or creativity.
Equally essential is self-awareness, recognizing one’s limitations and being open to constant improvement. Understanding yourself, your strengths, and areas for growth allows for a more informed and intentional approach to your artistic practice.
For those starting their journey, my advice is to dig deep and truly understand yourself. Embrace and cultivate resilience by knowing your worth, find that well of dedication within you to keep moving forward even in challenging times.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
I am actively seeking gallery opportunities to utilize my curatorial expertise, particularly in the vibrant arts scene of Houston. Drawing from my experience in curating exhibitions in Los Angeles, I have developed a keen interest in showcasing emerging contemporary artists. I’m particularly fascinated by the fusion of “highbrow” and “lowbrow” art, and I believe collaborating with a gallery in Houston would enable us to create a refreshing exhibition that brings these elements together in an innovative and engaging way. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to Houston’s art landscape with my both my own art work and my curatorial vision and passion for supporting emerging talents.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.artbymuka.com
- Instagram: artbymuka
- Facebook: artbymuka
- Linkedin: Margarita “MUKA” Farhad
