Daily Inspiration: Meet Miriam Uhura

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Miriam Uhura.

Hi Miriam, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In 2020, I began art with the amount of time we had during the pandemic. Starting primarily in acrylics, I would focus on painting cartoon characters because it came easiest at the time.

Just a few months later, I was introduced to body art culture, working at the tattoo shop Bloodline Dynasty. Although I wasn’t the one doing tattoos, I was exposed to seeing art get made every day.

Whether it was realism portraiture or colorwork, these were skills and techniques I’d apply to become a better painter.

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not, but I believe being passionate and dedicated to what you do won’t be easy. You have to work hard and know what it is you’re looking to accomplish as an artist. Some of the struggles I’ve come across in my four-year journey are rejection and projections.

A lot of people don’t see art as a serious career. Other people may not believe in your art the way you do. On the other hand, you may have people trying to tell you what to do with your art that may not align with what you believe in. Know that this is okay, cancel all the noise, and create from a place that feels best to you.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Well, my name is Miriam Uhura. I have the pleasure of being a body artist and fine artist. By the day, I’m a piercer at Bloodline Dynasty Tattoos.

But every single day and night, I’m a painter (LOL). I love what I do and am immensely proud that I can exist in both worlds of body art and fine art. They’re two worlds that rarely cross and I’m able to apply techniques from both worlds to become a stronger artist, this is what sets me apart.

As a fine artist, I paint a lot of portraiture that explores stories. Stories of family, everyday emotions, and culture. When people see my work, I want them, in a sense, to feel seen.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Kristen Woodhouse, Quinten Harper, and everyone at Bloodline Dynasty.

Krissy and Q are the owners of Bloodline Dynasty Tattoos. They’ve poured so much into me, genuinely.

Supporting me through and through, making sure I never stop doing what I love. Them being great in business and people I’m inspired by, I’m forever grateful to have that type of support. I’m immensely grateful for every artist at Bloodline Dynasty. There is so much love, support, and authenticity poured into each other, and that’s what keeps me going.

Jonathan Harris. Jon is great, honestly. I remember being petrified to ask him to show me how to paint in oil, just based on his skill set. He is incredible in oil, and when asked, he was so gracious and genuine in helping me become a better painter.

I’m thankful for that, just being able to learn from someone without being made to feel like I’m not good enough. I was met with encouragement and support. Also, my mama, my siblings, and my family, without their love in me, none of this would have been possible.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miriamuhura/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartistmir

Image Credits
Justin Leek (@Justin.flicks)