We were lucky to catch up with Miranda Squillace recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Miranda, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

As most artists do, I began creating at a young age. I was using books like “Drawing for Beginners” or “How to Sketch”. Most gifts I was given as a kid were art supplies or drawing books. I was fortunate enough that my parents supported my talent and encouraged me to continue making art. I was also fortunate enough to attend a high school that had a well-funded art program. I learned all the basics from my teachers, including blending, shading, perspective, etc.

All artists have their own timeline. Some artists continue an arts education in college and others don’t. I, unfortunately, was the latter. For several years, I stopped making art to pursue a different degree. This absolutely set me back, because once I did start creating again, all I had known were the same basic skills I learned in high school. I would have improved my craft much faster if I had taken more art classes in college, but back then I never thought I would make a career out of art.

Everything I’ve learned after high school has been self-taught. The biggest obstacle for me was being an artist with no guidance or constructive criticism. What has been the most helpful for me has been watching other artists online to improve my craft. In my opinion, the most essential skill is having a solid foundation in drawing and perspective. For even experienced artists, I suggest going back to the basics. There’s nothing wrong with taking a step back.

Miranda, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m a visual artist and art instructor located in San Diego!

In late 2020, I lost my job due to Covid. I had the choice to either find another job or try my hand at entrepreneurship. I knew that was my perfect opportunity to launch my art career, because I was motivated and looking for a change. I also knew that I would regret it if I never tried. I’ve been a full-time artist ever since. Currently, I sell paintings, commissioned work, and I offer Paint & Sip classes at local restaurants and bars.

For my paintings, the subject matter I focus on is nude/erotic art and the female form. My clients have reached out to me for these types of paintings, specifically, for a few reasons. Some clients want art portraying themselves as a way of celebrating and becoming more confident with their own bodies. Other clients want to gift the art to their partners as a way to spice up their relationship. My art sets me apart, because it’s uncensored. The reason I do this, is because I want to start removing the stigma surrounding female pleasure. I think it’s important for women to see representation, because society has shamed them for too long. I’m proud to share this type of art with the world, despite any negative feedback I’ve received. The positive feedback has far outweighed the negative, anyway.

As an artist, I understand that paintings aren’t always affordable. So, along with making my art, I help others create their own. I decided to start instructing Paint & Sip classes in 2020. I want my followers to know that as much as I love creating art, I also love fostering creativity in others. I make landscapes and vibrant art for my students to follow along to, most of whom have no prior art experience! Right now, I’m offering classes at The Local Pacific Beach, The Hideout, and as an Airbnb Experience.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I have a couple goals that drive my creative journey. First, I want to have my own studio. I’d like to expand my Paint & Sip classes and continue to grow that part of my business. In the process, I would love to support my community. I’d want to partner with local wineries, breweries, and other small businesses. Additionally, I’d also like to have local artists sell their art in my studio as a way to support them in their artistic journey.

The other goal I have is that I want to get to a point in my career where I no longer offer commissions. Making commissions comes with pressure. There’s pressure to make sure the painting lives up to the client’s standards, and pressure to make sure a quality piece is done within a certain time frame. It’s definitely stressful, and that’s not what I want art to be for me. I want to be able sell only my personal artwork. I want people to recognize my work as my own, and seek me out specifically to purchase it. There’s just something so freeing about creating a painting with my whole heart and then finding out someone else loves it enough to hang it up in their home.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is that everything I do goes towards supporting my business and my dream. Every dollar I invest in my business is a dollar I invest in myself. Although I’m not making as much money as I was when I worked for a company, I’m my own boss, and that is more valuable to me than a large paycheck.

Contact Info:

• Website: mirandaroseart.com 
• Instagram: artbymsquill

Image Credits
Ashley Galando, Alexis Q Photo, Visendus Media, Steve Gavreau