About the Artist

My name is Mariam Ahrari. I am a Bay Area based self-taught artist and I have been practicing art for 15 years now. From a young age, I was always interested in drawing and sketching. For years I mostly drew detailed objects or portraits with just pencil to paper, and slowly expanded by trying out different mediums. Painting colors on canvas and seeing the end result of what I’d created made me realize that this is what I am most passionate about. I began taking commissions in high school for friends and even some teachers who noticed my work. It was most special to me during that time when my artwork was gifted to my customers’ family and friends. I enjoyed every moment of my journey, but practicing art became a little different during college years while managing everyday life. Although I was a Business Finance major, art was still a part of me and any chance I got I wanted to continue exploring my creativity. I reminded myself that just because I wasn’t creating for long periods of time, doesn’t mean I’m not still an artist.

In the past 2 years, I decided to take my hobby more seriously. But coming back into the art world was not as easy as I pictured it. Inspiration came and went. I had to figure out a balance of the skills I’d already learned and what I wanted to do next. I’ve now shifted my focus onto the simplicity of textured art. Creating these pieces and seeing them displayed brings me joy knowing that everything I’ve worked towards has lead me here. Each phase of trying new things taught me something. No trial and error is ever wasted. No mistake is actually a mistake. And art doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to make you feel something.

During my exploration journey, I noticed that my art style has constantly evolved over time. I’ve taught myself to go with the flow any time I get inspired, embrace all the phases of my creativity and challenge myself to create things I never imagined I could. Every artist deserves their moment. I am presently and gratefully in mine.

Thank you for being here.

- Mariam <3