Meet Jamila Parker | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jamila Parker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jamila, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
Hello,

My name is Jamila Parker! Many people know me as Milajae from my social platforms. I am a 25 year old creator from Mesquite Texas. I’ve always had an interest in art since I was younger. I started out drawing and eventually got into graphic design as well. My family is very creative which has been both impactful and inspiring. I grew up with a very crafty mom and was always surrounded with different art projects. I even started painting on shoes and fabric for fun! My environment has definitely influenced me to explore my creativity . It wasn’t until college that I actually decided to start painting on canvas and experimenting more with acrylic paint. One painting slowly turned into 5 and I’ve been creating ever since!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I first started painting I didn’t have any expectations or goals for my art. I was able to create freely and for fun. The more I painted I knew it was something I enjoyed and wanted to grow in. At the beginning I struggled a lot. As a self taught artist I was very naive to supplies, proportions, and even color mixing. I only used that as motivation to get better. I began researching new techniques and practiced painting every chance I got. I started creating abstract portraits of women and eventually found my own unique style of painting. The most exciting thing about my journey is that I’m just getting started and have so much more creativity to share. I’m proud of my growth and determination to become a better artist. Now I have set goals and expectations for my art! It is not an easy journey, but I’ve come to enjoy the process along the way. My art work represents strong, beautiful women and I hope to continue to inspire others with my creations.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of my favorite things to do is go out to eat with family and friends. I’f I brought my friends with me to Houston I definitely would take them to brunch at Unions Kitchen. They have a really good atmosphere and I love their chicken and waffles! For good music, food, and drinks, I would take them to Midtown for a chill fun night. We would go to a lounge or outdoor patio setting. I would also take them to the graffiti wall or places around the art district. There are amazing murals and street art all over which is enjoyable and inspiring.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d love to give a special shout out to my parents and sister. My mom and sister have always pushed me in my creative journey. Since my mom has a creative background I lean on her a lot for support and guidance. I can always rely on her knowledge and point of view. My sister is also always there to motivate me. She pushes me to strive for the best and to follow my dreams. My family has been my number one supporters especially when it comes to my art. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without their love and encouragement.

Website: https://www.milajaecreations.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_milajae/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/milajaecreations

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@_milajae