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

Muddyum, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

When I was in 6th grade one of my art teachers took us to the Milwaukee Public Zoo. I was painting a peacock and a 4 year old boy was standing next to me with his mom. He asked his mom if they could buy my painting. His mom said “Wow that is really good how old are you?” I said “I am 11.” She said “Really? You’re only 11? You’re really good!” And I had this intuitive feeling in my gut and that is when I knew I was going to be an artist.

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

I am an illustrator and designer based in Brooklyn, NY. My work is inspired by everyday objects, puzzles, puns, architecture, jewelry, travel, and textiles. All of my artwork is free-styled so no original piece will ever be the same.

My work evokes a sense of playfulness and make you feel like a kid again. It encourages play and getting lost in shapes and colors. These unique paintings play with one’s memory, will get your mind to think and see in a different way, and will have you discovering something new in them every time. My mission is to inspire people to take a step back and see life from a birds-eye view, but also zoom in and explore all the unique details life has to offer. My work also inspires people to discover things about the world and themselves through her art.

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

People can stop asking artists to work for them for free or cheap. Everyone want to “collaborate” or get a commission, but then when the artist charges them they are shocked. People who have friends that are artists should not expect their artist friend to give them a piece of art for free or at a discounted price.

If you can’t afford an original buy a print from the artist.

Also, it is rude to ask an artist when you meet them how much they charge, how long it takes them to make a piece or how they figure out pricing.

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

My main goal is to inspire people to be creative.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.muddyum.com
• Instagram: @muddyum
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muddyumillustration
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muddyum/

Image Credits
For my headshot Tulika Bose Bansari