My Artistic Journey

My name is Mia Solange Patiño, and my journey as an artist began long before I ever called myself one. Born in Austin, Texas and raised in Panama since the age of five, I’ve spent most of my life navigating two cultural identities — a duality that has deeply shaped my perspective and creative voice.

Art has always been present in my life — not just as a hobby, but as a lens through which I understand the world. From early childhood drawings to experimenting with photography, painting, and mixed media, I’ve always been drawn to visual storytelling. Over the years, I realized my work wasn’t just about aesthetics — it was about emotion, memory, and space.

I recently graduated cum laude with a B.A. in Studio Art from Florida State University, where I further developed my voice as an artist. My work often explores themes of human emotion, nostalgia, and identity, blending traditional and digital mediums. I’m especially interested in using photography and abstract expression to translate internal experiences into visual forms — whether it’s a distressed scream caught in a still image or a collage that reconstructs memory through architecture and personal history.

What makes my work unique is its emotional honesty. I’m not afraid to go to dark or vulnerable places — and I believe that’s where real connection happens. Through my art, I aim to create spaces where viewers can pause, feel, and maybe even see themselves.

Currently based in Tallahassee, I’m continuing to explore new mediums and seeking opportunities to grow creatively — whether that’s through interior design, museum work, or artistic collaborations that push boundaries.