This interview was curated by START Shows

Muddyum® is an award-winning illustrator and designer based in Brooklyn, NY. Her work is inspired by everyday objects, puzzles, puns, architecture, jewelry, travel, and textiles. All of Muddyum®’s artworks are freestyled so no original piece will ever be the same.

The works of Muddyum® evoke a sense of playfulness and make you feel like a kid again. Her work encourages play and getting lost in shapes and colors. Her 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. Muddyum®’s mission is to inspire people to take a step back and see life from a birds-eye view, zoom in and explore all the unique details life has to offer. Her work also inspires people to discover things about the world and themselves through her art. 

(Source: Muddyum)

How did you get your name? 

It's a play on how my family pronounces my name.

How did you get into creating?

My mom was a kindergarten teacher and at the end of every year she would bring home the rest of the art supplies from her classroom for my brother and I to play with. I also have been experimenting in art class since preschool.

Where are you from?

Born in Milwaukee, WI. Living in Brooklyn, NY for the past 13 years.

How did growing up in your neighborhood/city affect you?

I was the only South Asian and Muslim girl in my school until high school. I was different from my friends, my family had different rules, but I learned to put dedication into art and athletics and that is how I found my true self.

What did you do to advance your skills/knowledge?

I have taken art classes my entire life. I studied art and have a BFA in Painting and Drawing from UW-Milwaukee and a MFA in Illustration from SCAD. Now I look at tutorials and speak to other artists and designers.

What does your current setup look like?

I have a couple desks, but I make art all around my Brooklyn apartment.

Who inspires you?

Most of my art teachers in general inspired me.

One, in particular, took us to the Milwaukee Public Zoo when I was in 6th grade. 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 and that is when I knew I was going to be an artist.

What is your goal when you create?

My goal is to feel happy and peaceful throughout the process.

Why do you create?

I create because this is the gift I was born with to share to the world.

How has choosing your creative path affected your life?

Choosing a creative path has directed my life in a way I would have never imagined. I have always known that I wanted to be an artist, but I didn't know back then all of the avenues there are for an artist.

Did you have to overcome any obstacles along the way?

Yes, I did the typical artist hustle living in NYC. Working in a restaurant and getting my work out there. I would sell my greeting card to stores, I would have meetings with art directors and also put my work in shows. Eventually I got a job as a graphic designer in the children's book department of a major publisher. I have continued to pursue art and illustration avenues outside of there.

What's your go-to song right now and why is it important to you?

Alien Superstar by Beyonce. It is important to me because I feel like I have always been unique and do things a specific way that is personally mine.

What is your dream as an artist and what steps are you taking to reach your dream?

I would like my brands Muddyum® and Bismillah Amore® to be brands people recognize. I would like to show my art internationally. I am showing in more art shows and I am selling art under Muddyum® and apparel under Bismillah Amore®.

What would you tell someone else with a dream?

Keep pursuing your dreams. Your dreams may change and that is ok. Always evolve with the times. Know when to take a break. Expand your horizons by living abroad. Always experiment.

Tell us about your most recent release

I recently had my work in a show at One Art Space in Tribeca and I will be in another show at Awita Gallery in Williamsburg.

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/muddyum/?hl=en

Facebook.com: https://www.facebook.com/muddyumillustration/

Website: http://www.muddyum.com

Photography credit: Photos of my art are done by Muddyum®
Jacket and shoe photos by Jelani Prew
Headshot photos by Tulika Bose

Stereotype Co’s mission is to shine light on dreamers around the world.

Your support helps us continue make a difference.

SUPPORT STEREOTYPE