We’re looking forward to introducing you to Makaylah Clark & Nick Lee & Alivia Twistedcrystalsoh. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Makaylah & Nick & Alivia, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
As a figurative interdisciplinary artist, I feel like I’m wandering; the path is unclear and ever-changing. I never know when my next job or opportunity will be. For some careers, the path is obvious: go to school, get good grades, find a job in your field. As an artist, it’s not so straightforward; each decision is entirely my own. I have to trust myself enough to make choices that will help me progress in my career or grant me opportunities. Even when applying to grants, shows, or residencies, I don’t know the outcome until months later. Getting any of these chances will determine what I’ll be doing for the next few months, so I’m often playing for the unknown. I enjoy being free to do what I want and try new things. I believe if I stay consistent and make exceptional work, what I’ve put in will pay off in the end.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a figurative interdisciplinary Visual artist whose work focuses on exploring cross-cultural interconnectivity. I create depth by drawing with colored pencils on raw canvas. I then apply thin layers of acrylic paint on top of these “underdarings,” adding depth and life in the figures of my work. Drawing from history from around the world and time to create work that intertwines cultural similarities into one place. I spend a lot of time reading and learning about other cultures and connecting them to my own to create my work. Alongside being a visual artist, I run a small business with my sister, Maliyah Clark, called Black Star. I have also worked on murals for my local community, as well as taught art classes. I believe art can bring people together.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship I have with my twin sister Maliyah has always been one of helping each other grow. We help each other to push ourselves to do better and step out of our comfort zones. At the same time, we support each other not only through feedback but words of encouragement. I’m not sure where I would be if I didn’t have my sister’s perspective. My sister is also an artist, so I trust her feedback to be honest and helpful.
When did you last change your mind about something important?
I recently changed my mind about not going to college. After attending my first artist residency in the countryside of France at CHATEAU d’ORQUEVAUX. It made me realize how much I missed and needed to be around other creatives. My work is influenced by my experiences, so being able to connect with a variety of people changes the way I create. I’ve concluded that getting my BFA in Studio Art will not only help me strengthen my artistic practice but also widen my range of opportunities. In addition to my BFA, eventually I would like to get an MFA. I am still deciding what schools to apply to, but, looking forward to this new chapter in my life and am excited to see how it will change me.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
It is difficult for me to recognize which one person whose ideas have influenced me the most. There are many people I look to better understand the world around me. Often, the people whose ideas I reflect on the most are visual artists. Artists such as Norman Rockwell, Amy Sherald, Mickalene Thomas, Do Ho Suh, as well as many other modern and contemporary artists, have left a strong impression on me. I admire these artists because their work is a reflection of themselves and opens a conversation about the world around us. Artist contribute their unique perspectives on the world, and more often than not, I found myself relying on their ideas.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I believe I am doing what I’m born to do. I don’t think it’s possible for me to be alive and not make art. Oftentimes, I think about pursuing a more practical career, possibly a doctor or lawyer, but for me I would be choosing between being fulfilled and happy or genuinely miserable. I value having time to create meaningful and complex works over a practical career. I have made it my goal not only to make art but to have a career as an artist. I know it won’t be easy, but I know I will be fulfilled doing so.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://makaylaheclark.wixsite.com/makaylahclark
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paniicakes/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@paniicakes
Image Credits
Photo of me in my studio taken by Katerina Jeng
