Today we’d like to introduce you to Mia Crews.
Hi Mia, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My artistic journey began as far back as I can remember. I always enjoyed painting, drawing, or anything artistic, and my parents have always supported my love for art. As a child, I was captivated by the world of fashion, watching the Kimora Lee Simmons Show and Project Runway, which inspired me to pursue fashion design. This fascination led me to start drawing fashion illustrations and eventually sewing, which motivated me to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts.
After getting accepted into SCAD in 2019, I initially pursued a degree in fashion design. However, after my grandmother’s passing in 2021 during the quarantine, I spent significant time reflecting on my future. I realized that fashion design no longer aligned with my aspirations or the lifestyle I envisioned for myself. Consequently, I transitioned to the fibers program, a field that allowed me to develop a broader range of mediums and skills and achieve a better work-life balance.
By 2023, I started to feel that my art wasn’t reflecting me or inspiring me as an artist. I also reached a point where I felt drained from being in these artistic and educational white spaces, feeling unseen and unable to relate. This ultimately led to a transformation in my art style, moving towards fine art and creating works that tell stories and represent my culture. This journey eventually led to the creation of my first sculptural collection, “Dear, Dark & Lovely.”
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As an artist, I face several obstacles and challenges in my journey. Creating art that means something significant is always at the forefront of my mind. I constantly strive to produce meaningful work, but I also try not to succumb to the pressure of always having to generate artwork or content about my art. I have come to accept that I am not the type of artist who creates art 24/7. I need to live my life to find the inspiration to create.
Another challenge is avoiding being boxed into producing a certain type of art as a Black artist. I aim to express myself freely without being constrained by external expectations. Being confident enough to put my artwork out for people to see is also a hurdle, as is trying not to be overly humble about my creations.
Finding the time and money to make art and purchase materials to bring my vision to life has been particularly challenging lately. Additionally, being in my 20s and just graduating, I am in a season of reinventing myself and discovering what I want out of life. Navigating this period of self-discovery and figuring out my path is undoubtedly the most challenging aspect of my artistic journey.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As an African American mixed media fibers artist from Charlotte, North Carolina, my work reflects my upbringing in the South, encompassing Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. My creative process is deeply infused with nostalgia, drawing inspiration from the societal norms and cultural intricacies that shaped my formative years. Growing up amidst the rich hues of the South and the vibrant rhythms of African American culture, I navigated the intersections of race, identity, and womanhood. My artistic exploration is a testament to these encounters, serving as a mirror to the multifaceted challenges and triumphs of Black femininity.
In my studio endeavors, I confront the nuanced issues of texturism, featurism, and colorism, responding to the societal norms and stereotypes that have influenced my perception of self and community. Through a blend of mediums and techniques, I seek to unravel the layers of experience and uncover the resilience and beauty inherent within the Black community.
My work is more than just art; it is a dialogue—a poignant reminder of the voices that have been silenced and the stories that have been overlooked. It challenges the status quo and invites viewers to confront their own biases and preconceptions. Ultimately, my art stands as a testament to the power of creativity as a vehicle for self-expression and social commentary. I hope that through my work, I can create a space where Black creatives can share their experiences, fostering understanding and inspiring change in a world often filled with division and misunderstanding. Ultimately, I always create what inspires me.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory would have to be spending summers with my grandmother in Union, South Carolina. Those summers were filled with time spent with her not only strengthened our bond but also deeply influenced my appreciation for my cultural heritage. The stories she told, the meals we shared, and the lessons she imparted remain a significant part of who I am today. Her presence and guidance have profoundly impacted my art today, infusing my work with the nostalgia and richness of those cherished moments.
Pricing:
- Commissions priced upon request.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/miacrews
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miacrews.studio?igsh=MXJhOHlsZ3R4NjllYQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561917235650
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mia-crews-9841001b0?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@miacrews.studios?si=xLzIx3AWNvAGUgIE
- Other: Email : [email protected]
