Today we’d like to introduce you to Artist Miriam Moran
Hi Artist Miriam, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’m a proud Latina artist with Taino Indian roots, and Maryland has been my canvas for over 20 years! My artistic adventure has taken me on a rollercoaster ride, transforming everything from offices to hospitals into vibrant works of art. With a mission to honor historical masterpieces and champion the arts, I channel the spirit of my favorite artist, Frida Kahlo, along with my own life hurdles and a sprinkle of divine inspiration.
My passion for art reignited after a harrowing car accident in 2007 that landed me and my two oldest kiddos in the hospital. One child faced a spinal injury while I battled some serious internal damage. But with a little divine intervention, the brilliant Johns Hopkins trauma team, my supportive parents, and a chorus of heartfelt prayers, I emerged victorious, using art as my healing brush.
In 2014, after breaking free from domestic violence, I turned my pain into purpose, giving back to my community while juggling life as a single mom to five amazing kids. My personal stories fuel my drive.
Since 2015, I’ve been on a mission called “Painting for a Purpose.” It kicked off with a civil tribute to Harriet Tubman titled “Fingerprints,” which caught the eye of a small local art gallery and eventually led to my honor of Gloria Richardson that same year. Little did I know my work would steal the spotlight in Cambridge’s creative scene! While I usually prefer to stay behind the curtain, my passion for arts education and deep connection to the Cambridge community shine bright!
My epic collabs with youth empowerment superheroes have sparked some serious positive vibes! From teaming up with young mentees for community cleanup days in Greenwood and Cosby to joining forces with the Cambridge Police Department for our annual Pine Street cleanup and art collaboration, we’re all about beautifying the block and building trust with local families. Thanks to my colorful public art projects, I’ve made some major waves in the Cambridge youth scene, inspiring the way for exciting initiatives like the “Just A Kid from Cambridge” series in 2024 through public art.
Now, let’s talk about that particular mural I whipped up and painted back in 2021. It was a beacon of hope during a stormy season filled with COVID-19 chaos, police brutality, rising drug woes, gang troubles, and gun violence. I wanted to shout out to the youth that being a kid from Cambridge is just the kickoff to a grand adventure toward success! Empowering our young dreamers and shaping culture is the name of the game, and the vibrant public art splashed across Cambridge, Maryland, is a testament to the powerful advocacy through art that I humbly brought forth when negativity was the reigning champ. My mission? To shift the narrative from just agricultural beauty to a full-on celebration of humanity! And let’s not forget, my advocacy doesn’t stop at murals—I’ve earned my stripes for speaking out, even when the cameras are off!
In 2022, I had the privilege of collaborating with Melvin Russell, the former Deputy Commissioner and Colonel/Chief of the Baltimore Police Department, on the “Love is the Answer” movement. This initiative aims to enhance public safety and reevaluate the criminal justice system. During challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise in gun violence, I played a pivotal role as the coordinator for the Boys and Girls Club of Leonard’s Lane, establishing a solid foundation for the club’s operations. I was honored to receive a personal invitation from the esteemed Project Backboards artist, Hawkins, to assist in designing and painting basketball courts. A notable achievement came in October 2023, when I was recognized for my leadership in bringing the EA Sports FC mural in Philadelphia to fruition within an impressively short timeframe given. My second exhibition I am most proud of during my journey when I supported a breast cancer foundation in honor of my mother, who bravely battled stage three breast cancer and is now in remission. The lessons learned from adversity inspire me to uplift my family, reminding them that it is never too late to serve the community and that we can create beautiful masterpieces even in the face of challenges.At this stage in my journey, my goal continues through purposeful art that gives back to communities in need, with a portion of each commissioned piece contributing to that cause. In my current mission, I am dedicated to honoring and fostering connections with our Latin families who seek greater representation in the public arts within our community. My artistic initiative aims to provide access to literary resources created by our remarkable community historians and legacy builders. The “Shine Your Light” mural I have designed will serve as the first homage to Borinquen heritage in public art on the Eastern Shore, marking a significant milestone for our art community. My overarching goal is to leave a lasting impact on the hearts of our Maryland residents, reminding them of our strength in unity, regardless of our diverse backgrounds. The foundation of knowledge begins with literature and inspiration. Art is not only educational but also essential, and I am grateful for the opportunity to paint with purpose.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As a fierce lupus warrior, I wear my mom cape with pride while championing my little superhero, who rocks the autism spectrum! Juggling my artistic flair and my advocacy hat, I’m on a mission to break down walls and tackle those pesky prejudices right here on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Being a Puerto Rican artist means I’m all about making our vibrant heritage shine through public art that truly reflects who we are!
But hold onto your paintbrushes, because being a female artist can feel like battling dragons in a medieval fantasy! I often find myself fighting against the unfair treatment in those “creative for all” spaces, where my masterpieces get overshadowed and my ideas are treated like they sprouted from thin air. Seriously, it’s like some male artists have a magic invisibility cloak for women’s talents!
Nevertheless, I’m all in on my artistic adventure, using my skills to spark joy and inspiration, especially for youth and families. I’m on a crusade for more public support for diverse arts, especially for those hidden gems who are often left in the shadows. As I navigate this journey, I’m learning that spreading knowledge and carving out pathways to tackle those hurdles is more vital than ever! Let’s paint the town with creativity and inclusivity!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in promoting and supporting underserved public art communities on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. My work focuses on enhancing the local arts scene by fostering genuine connections within the community and advocating for greater visibility and resources for artists.
I am proud of the recognition I have received for my efforts, which include several prestigious awards. Notably, I received the “Iron Sharpens Iron” Achievement Award from Groove City Black Heritage & Culture in 2024, and was honored as a Reveal Woman to Watch by APG Media of Chesapeake/Star Democrat in the same year. Additionally, I have been awarded the Maryland State Arts Council Planning Award and the United States Lifetime Presidential Award, both in 2023.
What sets me apart from others is my deep commitment to nurturing relationships within the community and my focus on creating inclusive opportunities for all artists, especially those who may not have access to traditional avenues of support. My work is driven by passion and a desire to uplift and empower local voices, making a lasting impact that goes beyond geographical boundaries.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happy is the transformation of my pain into purpose. By giving back to the communities in need, I find fulfillment in my roles as a wife and mother, using my personal stories as motivation. Being a lupus warrior and proud mom, I take pride in advocating for my children including my youngest son on the autism spectrum, which strengthens my connection to my family as a whole and my community. I also find joy in uplifting thought art and witnessing families come together amid the challenges of the world. Serving God and loving like Christ brings me happiness, as it aligns with my values and mission. Having faced many challenges, including depression, I understand the power of creativity as a source of healing and happiness, making it an integral part of my life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://artistmiriammoran.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artistmiriammoran/
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/4ti81OiVA2I
- Other: https://www.gofundme.com/f/shineyourlightmuralproject
