From across the ocean, we have long admired the work of Maya Poon, sharing her life through the lens as both the artist and the muse; creating and curating in Oaxaca, Mexico. We were finally able to connect with Maya as our muse, where she was photographed in Oaxaca in our latest collection Bohème, a collection inspired by the undone, nonchalant style of artists everywhere who had broken away from a ‘normal’ existence to pursue a creative life of freedom.
We asked Maya a few questions about her journey to becoming an artist and how she finds creative inspiration.
Can you tell us a little about where you're from?
I was born in Panama, and grew up in the French side of Montreal. 5 years ago, I made my way to Oaxaca to study the agave plant and i fell in love with the land - the people, the valleys, the food, and the culture. The grandmothers walking in the most beautiful dresses to sell mangoes. I moved there because I have never felt so understood and free. There is such a particular rhythm in Oaxaca, everything is slow, handmade, and natural. It is a true land of ancestral artistry.
What inspired you to become an artist, and how did your journey begin?
I don't remember where my journey began as I believe my biggest craft/art is my life. I see life as something we can design and craft. We are all artists of our lives.
Can you describe your artistic work and techniques you use?
My expression lays mostly in visuals and words. For my photography, I use mostly analog film cameras and lately I've been exploring with a digital fujifilm which allows for more light creativity.
What themes or subjects do you often explore in your work?
The main theme of my work is nature - and our relationship with her.
Can you tell us about a specific piece of artwork that holds special significance to you, and why?
I photographed a series of Quiote in Oaxaca - quiote is the tall stem that grows out of the agave to carry her flowers. This series is particularly meaningful to me as it represents such surreal strength and the reach of the beyond - as sometimes little agaves of 40cm can grow stems as tall as 9 meters high.
Do you have any rituals or routines that help you get into the creative mindset?
I like to follow the rhythm of nature. It's important to move with the sun and rest when your body needs. The morning is sacred to me. Cacao is what gets me through long days, aligns my intention to my heart and sparks my creativity in the morning.
Do you have any advice for aspiring artists who are just starting their journey?
Let go of the mind and just try to walk closer to your heart every day.
Muse Maya Poon
Photography Jo Concetta