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

Matty , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you take us back in time to the first dollar you earned as a creative – how did it happen? What’s the story?

My first dollar earned as a creative came from my first jobs in high school! One gig, painting faces at children’s birthday parties, led to my first entrepreneurial venture in college. The business, “Flower Fairy Face Painting”, involved me dressing as a fairy, and painting faces on Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, CO.

Another early endeavor was painting vibrant folk art wall hangings for a boutique in Katonah, NY, hinting at my future in surface and product design. Looking back, these moments laid the groundwork for where I am now and were my humble beginnings as a creative.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Matty Miller, an artist and art educator based in Denver, Colorado. My artistic journey began in childhood, where creativity was woven into our daily life. From painting on scraps of paper to exploring the vibrant nature around me, I found quiet and inspiration in long hours of creation and observing what was happening around me.

Matty Miller Studio reflects my dual passions: creating art and fostering creativity in others. As an artist, I specialize in creating beautiful pieces that celebrate wonder, connect with nature’s mystery, and resonate with collectors seeking similar experiences. My portfolio includes original paintings, art prints, and custom pieces inspired by the natural world and my fascination with life’s visual metaphors.

Beyond my artistic pursuits, I have the privilege of inspiring budding artists through camps and private lessons. Whether it’s guiding imaginative summer camps or providing personalized instruction, my goal is to cultivate creativity, confidence, and self-expression in my students. I believe art has the transformative power to heal, inspire, and empower individuals of all ages.

My diverse background, from studying clowning to embarking on a pilgrimage across Spain, has shaped me as an artist and educator. These experiences infuse my work with depth, authenticity, and a rich imagery. I take pride in offering not just beautiful artwork, but also art that serves as an invitation to connect more deeply with one’s own life and values.

Ultimately, I want to share my passion for creativity, exploration, and storytelling through my work. Whether you’re seeking to add a touch of beauty and tranquility to your space or embark on your own creative journey, I’m here to inspire and guide you every step of the way.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Addressing affordability in cities, offering accessible grants and business training, and nurturing artistic talent through education are crucial for empowering artists and fostering a thriving creative ecosystem. Integrating art into public spaces, encouraging art patronage, and facilitating collaboration further bolster this ecosystem, ultimately enriching cultural life for all. I’d love to see more accessible art studio spaces for up and coming artists, affordable rentals for budding businesses to try out ideas, and financial support for community-driven art programming.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

Looking back, I wish I’d known sooner the importance of being part of artistic and entrepreneurial communities. Being around other creative entrepreneurs, online or in person, boosts both well-being and motivation. Sharing experiences with fellow artists has been amazing, sparking new ideas and reminding me I’m not alone. Seeing their success fuels my own drive and expands my vision for what’s possible. These communities offer a powerful support system, allowing us to learn and grow together, mentor each other, and fill in each other’s knowledge gaps on our journeys.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.mattymiller.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/mattymillerstudio
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/mattymillerstudio
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/mattymillerstudio
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mattymillerstudio
• Other: TikTok: @mattymillerstudio

Image Credits
Photos by Kaytlyn Perez Photography, Case Drury, and Matty Miller