Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariah Katherine.
Hi Mariah, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born November 15th in Illinois, I am a Scorpio child of the deep water. My true foundation is my family and the resilient spirit of East St. Louis. I am the legacy of my 2nd great grandfather, Theodore “Pop” Myles, who poured into the community through boxing, track, and swimming to encourage a better tomorrow. My great grandmother, Seretha Coulter, further rooted my heart in the earth; she was a gardener whose harvest fed the hungry and funded the dreams. When my parents moved us to Kansas City in 1995, that upbringing became the lens through which I fell in love with the arts.
I was molded by the creative influences of the ’90s and legendary mentors. I think back to Mrs. Brown for opening my eyes to African American Art history; to Mr. Calhoun for the magic of ceramics and darkroom photography; and to Mrs. Kubic for teaching me the power of graphic design. My path in Studio Art began with three years at my favorite HBCU, Lincoln University, before I graduated from UMKC in 2016.
Today, I run Nova Soul Studio for prospective art buyers and students. Having a “Nova Soul” means I emerge to share my light—whether I am teaching at Equal Minded Cafe or painting my first large sculpture for the Parade of Hearts—before returning to the quiet of my own space. As an introvert who navigates social anxiety, that seclusion is where I refuel and find my peace. Like Faith Ringgold said, “My art is my freedom.” No matter who is watching, I will always create to leave a message or a feeling. This is my dedication to the community that raised me and the mentors who guided me. This is more than art; it is legacy.
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?
My journey has been a test of my peace. I’ve faced men who prioritize their desires over my craft and have been denied or overlooked for being a black woman. I’ve dealt with broken promises of payment and insults to my work, but I stand firm. I protect my body and my peace by cutting off toxicity. Even if that means being blackballed. My art is built on my divine totality and God’s timing, not the approval of those who cannot see my light.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
What I do & My Specialization
I hold a degree in Studio Art with an emphasis in Graphic Design. This dual background allows me to bridge the gap between fine art and digital branding. Through Nova Soul Studio, I create custom graphic design work, paint detailed commissions, and book curated paint classes. I also serve as a creative consultant for special events, helping others bring their unique visions to life while hosting and managing events.
What I am Known For
I am known for my high-quality execution and my ability to handle various creative lanes. Whether it is a painting for a private collection or a logo for a new brand, I am recognized for bringing a voice of experience and a deeply rooted cultural lens to everything I touch.
What Sets Me Apart & What I’m Proud Of
I am most proud of my ability to remain a kind, selfless business owner while protecting my peace and divine totality. What sets me apart is my versatility; I can design a digital campaign, paint a large-scale sculpture, or host a community event with the same level of excellence. I don’t just create art—I create the ideas and the spaces where art can flourish.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I define success as the act of never giving up on your own heart. Life can be chaotic or filled with joy, but the goal is to hold on to your vision through it all. If you can wake up and reach for your light another day, God has already made you a winner.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/novasoulstudio?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=00875420-ce4b-47d2-a319-a7359640e8d9
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novasoulstudio?igsh=MWhkMmxvczd4aWh1cw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17tsaAmjmv/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Twitter: https://x.com/novasoulart?s=21
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@blkkatwisdom?si=Iv-tUiYeElvWiRzl
