We recently had the chance to connect with Miriam Moran and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Miriam, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
Many people view artists merely as individuals who exhibit their work at events and create for enjoyment, often treating their efforts as a hobby. This mindset frequently leads to expectations for free or discounted creations. Such a perspective entirely overlooks the true essence of being an artist. Mastering this craft requires significant time, skill, and resources, making it a legitimate business. Art goes beyond mere aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in our culture and contributes profoundly to our personal development. Like any dedicated professional, artists deserve fair compensation to continue pursuing their passion and sustaining their livelihoods.
To shift this mindset, we must demonstrate the immense value and impact of art and artists. This involves actively communicating and educating our communities about the importance of creative work. We should advocate for policies that enable artists to earn a livable wage and foster environments where art is appreciated not only for its visual appeal but also for its capacity to provoke thought and evoke emotions.
By recognizing the arts as vital to our economy and well-being, we can reshape perceptions and ensure that artists receive the respect they deserve, alongside investment in small creative businesses. This transformation requires a collective effort—from artists, supporters, educators, and leaders—to establish systems that honor artists’ contributions and pave the way for future creatives.
When we achieve this, we uplift artists while enriching our communities, allowing art to remain a powerful medium for connection and inspiration. Let us commit to supporting the art scene, ensuring that artists’ voices are amplified and their work is recognized for its role in shaping our world.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am an independent art business owner committed to producing meaningful artwork. As a muralist and art instructor, I focus on creating customized murals for public spaces, as well as canvases for paint night events, whether they are large or small. Additionally, serve as an art coordinator for youth art programs within the community and provide consultancy services in the arts.
With over a decade of experience, I have contributed to a variety of publications centered on public art development and initiatives that have made a positive impact in underserved areas. My work highlights the achievements of diverse female artists in the realm of public art. While I continue to serve the Maryland area, I have also participated in projects across New York, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico and where my services are needed
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I used to think that I did not belong in spaces that had more credentialed individuals. Not having the same resources available as others and having a more humbling experience can at times cripple one’s mind to feel unvalued or not good enough. The project’s progress was hindered by self-imposed limitations from the project leads, stemming from either their own insecurities or concerns regarding my capabilities. Furthermore, as a female, I have encountered the persistent stereotype of being perceived as less capable. I learned through trial and error as I grew that experiences shape us, strengthen us and as artists, we all have to take our time to create improvement with our way of thinking. I no longer feel that things are unattainable. Now, I see every challenge as an opportunity to grow and learn, embracing the journey with open arms. Each brushstroke on a canvas is a testament to my resilience and determination. I’ve come to realize that my unique path and experiences are what define me as an artist now that I am older and allow me to bring a fresh perspective to my work.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
Pain can manifest in various forms. Unfortunately, my experience was one of concealment. From experiencing much trauma that I had to endure, inner hurt was a well known pain for me. Growing up, we were taught to hide our pain or our deep feelings; showing any sign of vulnerability often led to judgment or criticism. One profound influence on my artistic journey has been Frida Kahlo, who used her art as a means to express her story with raw honesty and deep emotion.
Frida’s remarkable ability to transform her personal struggles into powerful visual narratives resonated with me on a profound level. Her paintings were not mere images; they were windows into her soul, revealing her pain, resilience, and strength.
In a society where vulnerability is frequently mistaken for weakness, Frida’s art revealed to me that there is great strength in embracing and expressing our true selves. Her bravery in confronting her hardships through her work inspired me to follow suit—using art as a tool for healing and communication.
Like Frida, I too was in a horrific car accident and discovered that art could serve as my voice when words fell short. It became a sanctuary where I could delve into and express my deepest emotions without the fear of being judged. With every brushstroke, I found a way to relinquish the burdens I carried and to transform them into something beautiful and turn my pain to a paint purpose.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
In this industry wrongly think there’s only one way to succeed in the art world, usually following popular trends or working under long time popular brands. As a visual artist, I find this view limiting and dismissive of the many talents in our communities. Investing in the talents within our communities has the potential to bring about significant transformation, fostering innovation and creativity, which in turn contributes to the development of new brands, the strengthening of communities, and the creation of future career opportunities.
Another common mistake is believing art must appeal to a wide audience to be valuable. This belief undervalues the importance of culturally specific and authentic expressions. Supporting local artists and their unique voices makes our community’s culture richer.
Finally, the struggles of artists from marginalized communities are often downplayed, ignoring the barriers they face. Investing in these communities addresses these challenges and enriches our community with diverse perspectives and experiences.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
If I were to retire tomorrow, my clients would surely miss the unique and genuine love and voice I contribute. As a independent artist, I have successfully broken through long time barriers, providing fresh perspectives that are often overlooked in a community that tends to prioritize popular narratives and main circle success. My work challenges the norm and brings genuine engagement. Grateful it paves the way for more artists to have more opportunities in an area that was confide with one talents and same groups when creativity of murals is for all to experience and shouldn’t be based on just an organization call. There are more stories and delivering a creative authenticity that resonates with those in search of something distinctive and meaningful.
Furthermore, my designs are created authentically, crafted with dedication and hard work over a decade. I view this career as more than just a source of income; it is a passion with a purpose aimed at making a lasting impact beyond fleeting recognition and awards. I honor the identities of others in my work while also expressing my own in different services I bring, which contribute to an inspiring legacy that I cherish deeply. Art may be eternal, but there’s no substitute for having a dedicated artist on your team.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://artistmiriammoran.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artistmiriammoran/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/shorts/4ti81OiVA2I?si=biHIp_9Q9PhcYYpe
- Other: https://shineyourlight.myspreadshop.com/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
