Meet Marlo Graham

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Marlo Graham. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Marlo below.

Marlo, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

For me, keeping my creativity alive is all about staying in motion—challenging myself to do at least one creative thing every single day. It doesn’t always have to be directly related to my art business or a big project; sometimes it’s as simple as sketching something that caught my eye, rearranging a space, taking classes, or playing with a new idea or medium just for fun. Those small acts keep the creative muscle active without pressure.

I also make it a point to surround myself with other creative people. There’s something incredibly energizing about being in an environment where ideas are constantly flowing—whether we’re physically creating together or just bouncing thoughts off each other in conversation. That exchange of energy and perspective helps fuel my inspiration and makes the process feel more natural and less solitary. It’s a reminder that creativity thrives in connection.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Marlo Graham is a Twin Cities-based artist and designer with a passion for making the everyday more whimsical and colorful. She holds a BFA in Interior Design with a minor in Sustainability from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York (Class of 2022). After graduating, Marlo returned to her roots in Minnesota, where she continues to explore the intersection of art, design, and community. When she’s not creating, she loves spending her time volunteering at the animal shelter, game nights with family, happy hour with friends, or cuddling on the couch with her corgis.

Marlo’s work is primarily centered around her large scale acrylic paintings. Her art is known for its playful energy, clean lines, and immersive use of custom-mixed color palettes. Drawing inspiration from urban landscapes, nostalgic moments, and everyday life, she creates artwork that’s both personal and universally uplifting. Whether working in paint, digital media, or other mediums, her creative process blends composition, form, and function with a signature sense of flair.

“I get excited about the details—choosing colors, content, and layouts that shape the feeling of a piece. I love the intentionality behind visual storytelling, and I aim to weave that into everything I create. My work is an extension of who I am, the places I’ve been, and where I dream to go—and I hope it brings others along on the journey.”

Marlo participates in multiple art fairs around the Twin Cities throughout the year. Her next upcoming events are the Minneapolis Gift & Art Expo, and the Dayton’s Southdale Market. Additional events will be added to her website.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

One of the most impactful things I did early on was reaching out to artists who were already doing what I dreamed of doing—showing in galleries, participating in markets, and building sustainable creative careers. I asked if they’d be willing to sit down with me for what were essentially informal, informational interviews. These conversations were incredibly valuable. The insight, encouragement, and real-world advice I received helped me shape my path, avoid common missteps, and understand what it really takes to grow as an artist. My advice to anyone just starting out: don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions. Most creatives are more generous and open than you might expect!

Second, developing a style that’s uniquely yours—and owning it—has made a huge difference in my journey. Your style is more than just your artistic aesthetic; it can show up in your branding, your social media presence, the way you show up at markets, and even how you talk about your work. When your visual identity is consistent and authentic, it becomes easier for people to connect with you and remember your work. It creates a sense of cohesion that allows your art to expand into everything you do—which, for me, is incredibly energizing.

A third quality I’ve leaned on heavily is persistence. Creative careers don’t follow a straight path, and every artist will have different advice. You have to learn what opportunities work for you and your art. There are highs and lows, and it takes resilience to keep going, especially when results don’t show up right away. Staying committed, even when it feels uncertain, has allowed me to keep growing—both creatively and professionally.

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?

From a young age, my parents always encouraged creativity—in every form. They supported me in exploring both performing and visual arts, and never tried to steer me away from artistic pursuits. One of the most impactful things they did was give me the freedom to express myself fully. I was allowed to make my room my own creative space, decorate the walls, experiment with color, and even express myself through how I dressed. I was honestly shocked when I learned that some of my childhood friends weren’t allowed to paint or draw on their walls—because for me, that kind of expression was always welcomed.

Looking back, I realize how rare and important that kind of support was. Sadly, I believe a lot of parents don’t see art as a viable or sustainable career path, and many young creatives are discouraged before they even have a chance to explore it. I truly believe that if more parents encouraged creativity the way mine did, there would be so many more artists in the world—people who feel empowered to express themselves and pursue what lights them up.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.marlograhamart.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mmgraham_art/
• Other: Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MarloGrahamArt?ref=shop-header-name&listing_id=1720427890&from_page=listing