Meet Maiana Rose

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

Hi Maiana, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

Purpose has always been a driving force in my life. To me, it exists somewhere between the fantasy of what could be and the discipline, diligence, and clarity needed to make that vision a reality. Finding purpose can often feel like an unattainable goal, but I prefer to see it as a lifelong journey—a guiding force that continues to evolve, refine, and clarify over time.

At its core, I believe purpose begins with authenticity. When I feel most authentic—comfortable with who I am, flaws and all—I find that purpose naturally takes the driver’s seat. Without authenticity, there can be no true sense of purpose. That said, I’ve also faced moments, responsibilities, and obstacles that have pulled me off course, diverting me from honoring my authenticity. Whether it’s trying to fit into a workplace, social scene, or cultural expectation, these challenges can temporarily obscure the path to purpose.

Interestingly, I didn’t set out to be an author. When I first stumbled upon—or perhaps fell into—the role, it wasn’t part of some grand plan. It was an organic next step that emerged as I followed my intuition creatively, when considering what I could do with the brand of Illustrations I created called, Drawlaland. The first book I wrote was the first time I put something into the world that felt like an authentic expression of my creative potential for commercial purposes. I look at the book as a part of a larger picture when it comes to purpose, it’s not so much about the theme of the book…being commentary on social media culture, but rather composing my art, and drawings, humor, and perspective, into one finished product. Purpose, for me, is about taking inspiration from anything I feel compelled to explore—whether as an artist, a producer, or both—and bringing it into the world.

The creative spark and the ability to pull together the necessary elements to bring a vision to life is where I find my voice as an artist. From this perspective, purpose isn’t about the outcome or external success. It’s about the inner satisfaction that comes with completing a creative work and giving it the elements it needs to stand on its own, separate from me. That separation is freeing—it allows me to remain fluid and open to stepping into any project, whether as part of a team or on my own, without feeling confined to a single lane.

This fluidity also helps me embrace the unpredictable timelines of creative projects. Films, TV series, books, and artwork often don’t reach audiences until long after they’ve been created. By staying connected to a sense of general purpose and authenticity, I avoid the trap of trying to reconnect with an old version of myself or the original purpose behind a project. Instead, I approach each new phase of a project with fresh energy, finding purpose in the moment.

As I prepare for the release of my second book—a sequel to my first—I’ve reflected on this process deeply. Though I wrote the book two years ago, returning to it recently to refine its mission and finish the illustrations allowed me to renew my sense of purpose in relation to the work. Stepping into the role of my own editor has been a reminder that purpose is not fixed—it’s something that grows and transforms alongside my creative journey.

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

I’ll start by saying I’m someone with many slashes… Artist/Illustrator, Writer, Producer…etc. Right now, I’m focused on growing my brand as an artist and illustrator, under the handle Drawlaland. I’ve cultivated a unique style using a digital illustrating app, creating works that have led to collaborations across industries—from activations at SXSW and Art Basel to partnerships with tech companies, CPG brands, and commissions. What I love most about this work is how it opens doors to creative partnerships, allowing me to bring something imaginative and fresh to every project. Whether it’s a campaign for a brand, a commission, or something inspired by my own writing, I enjoy adding a personal, humorous touch to everything I create.
Beyond digital art, I continue to paint for the personal joy and connection it brings to my purpose. One day, I’d love to have an art show—when the time feels right.
Film and TV Production & Acting: Having spent many years working in TV and film, my passion for developing projects remains a central focus. Last year, my team and I received a New Mexico Writers Grant to fund a script for a film project that’s been in the works for a while. This project is still in its early stages, but it represents a deeply personal and collaborative endeavor. I also have several non-scripted projects I’m working on this year, each carrying an important message to inform, entertain, and expand awareness for their audiences. After stepping back from day-to-day entertainment work, I now approach projects with more patience and perspective.
Developing projects, especially after working with major media platforms, has refined my approach to storytelling. Whether it’s producing a feature film, developing a series, or exploring new formats, I’m committed to creating impactful content.
In my current role at a tech company, I’ve taken on the role of on-camera spokesperson, combining infotainment with brand awareness. Though the content I create for my job is quite different from what I do in TV, I bring the same creativity to scripting and developing engaging materials. Hosting a podcast for the company has also helped me expand my comfort zone and leverage my skills as both an on-camera talent and writer.
As an Author: My books are where humor and storytelling collide. My debut, Oh, The Pics That You’ll Post!, is a millennial-inspired parody poking fun at the highs and lows of social media. The upcoming sequel, Oh, The Dudes That You’ll Date!, takes a witty yet empowering look at modern dating—everything from red flags to attachment styles and self-worth. Writing has been an unexpected but rewarding chapter in my career. I’m currently focused on expanding my reach, finding the right brands and collaborators for my book tour, and exploring new directions for future projects, and hopefully at some point bringing my illustrations into motion for an animated series.
Whether I’m illustrating, writing, producing, or creating content, I’m driven by the desire to bring ideas to life and collaborate with others who share my vision. This variety keeps me inspired, and I’m excited to see where each path leads.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back three Qualities I strive to embody, and seek in others…
1. Patience
…Is truly a virtue. Being patient doesn’t just mean politely standing by until “they call you.” It means understanding that things take time…and yes, concerted effort over time, but even overnight success is not ever really overnight success…it takes a lot of manifesting and putting energy into something leading up to that. It really means not putting the cart before the horse. I have realized that sometimes in a rush to finish something, or an impatience to reach a goal, I have often times looked back and wished I had really just…chilled out. Especially when waiting on other people. In my 20s, I expected things to happen immediately. Life doesn’t work that way. Now that I’m in my 30s, I’ve adopted a “wait and see” mentality. It’s not about losing excitement—it’s about trusting that if something’s meant to happen, it will, and at the right time. And in the meantime, I’m staying busy. When you’re focused on your growth, you’re creating your own momentum, not just waiting for a pot to boil.
2. Go for “Matte” over “Shine”
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is not to chase or take shiny objects at face value. If something feels too good to be true, it usually is. Not because amazing or miraculous things can’t happen to you, but because that “too good to be true” feeling is actually a form of anxiety—your intuition signaling that something appearing so incredible on the surface may not be solid to its core. (And because my next book has me thinking about dating archetypes…I’ll make the analogy of this being phenomenon being similar to that of “the love bomber.”) Those “glittery offers” or people who seem to hold all the keys often don’t deliver. Instead, it’s the lasting connections and sensing genuine opportunities—where intentions feel clean—that truly matter. Shine isn’t handed to you; it’s earned.
Let’s talk “matte” for a sec—metaphorically speaking—matte doesn’t need to attract attention on a surface level or “show off.” It’s understated, solid, and doesn’t rely on appearances to prove its worth. I also look for collaborators who don’t need to tell me how much they’ve done but let their work speak for itself.
Oh, and on an aesthetic note? Matte is just way more relevant.
Magnetize, Don’t Chase
I’ve never been “a chaser”—I always thought perhaps that it was just fear of rejection that held me back. But what I have come to realize is that fear and chasing are two sides of the same coin—both putting something on a pedestal. True magnetism comes from self-worth and purpose. When I take my foot off the gas and focus on the present, opportunities flow in ways I never expected. The point is, it’s not about seeking, but rather building. Not looking around to see who can help you, or who can you meet…it’s rather about calling the attention back to yourself, and pouring that focus and attention into creating. This is naturally magnetize the people and things that can aid you in the moment you are ready for them.
A resource that’s been super helpful for me in this journey is To Be Magnetic by Lacy Phillips. Her approach to manifesting is rooted in self-work and it’s a guide I come back to whenever I feel off course. Manifesting isn’t just about vision boards—it’s about unblocking the patterns that keep us from accessing our personal power.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Right now, I’m incredibly grateful to have a team that believes in me, my book, and my ability to step into this self-authoring chapter of my career. This past year has been a lesson in setting boundaries, saying “no” to outdated dynamics, and staying aligned with my vision. As I launch my second book, I’m looking for collaborations with podcasts, comedians, brands, CPG companies, and dating apps to amplify its reach. I’m excited to see how this next chapter unfolds, and if you feel aligned or have an idea for a collaboration, feel free to reach out!

Contact Info:

Image Credits

B&W Photos are Eric Tranberg | Palm Springs Photo Meredith Wright | Art Basel Poster Hang Up – Manu Seve

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