Meet Mariam Kamara | Artist + Content Creator + Social media manager

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

Hi Mariam, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have always loved to create, whether it’s a new makeup look or interior design. God has blessed me with an eye for all things visual and I told myself that I needed to find something that fits my aesthetic. The thought process was simply “Show people your creative side and tap in to who you really are” Easier said then done. I started my small business in 2020 immediately after graduating with a masters in Applied Behavior Analysis. I had hoped to start it sooner but school took up most of my time. I knew as soon as I graduated that I needed to create. It was a need for me. Although I love the field that I’m in I wanted something personal to call my own outside of work. July 2020, I launched Mariam Kamara Art and it’s the best decision I have ever made. I wanted people to not only purchase art but functional art for their homes, an office or for loved ones. I can proudly say that I am a mixed media artist working primarily with resin, alcohol ink and acrylic paints. I make coasters, trays, phone grips, trinket dishes and so much more! Everything is handmade and comes from my heart.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Firstly I am a black creative. I want more black creatives to step outside of their comfort zones and to tap into that side they have always tried to suppress. Starting up my small business was not easy. It took a lot of trial and error, tears and more tears but it so worth it to have something you call your own. There is no-one else who manages you or tells you how things should be done. I overcame this challenge of a start up business by persistence and perseverance. Thats truly all it takes to become successful. The lessons I learned along the way is that there is something beautiful that comes out of a struggle. Keep pushing and fighting to do what your heart desires. Lastly, I want the world to know that just because there are other people doing the same thing you are does not mean you shouldn’t do it. It hasn’t been done by you so go for it! There is something unique about you and only you.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m a huge happy hour queen and I love aesthetics that go along with it.

I would tell people to check out Ambriza which is located in Katy, TX. It’s a newer Mexican restaurant that has awesome food and drinks for happy hour. I would also suggest Tobiuo. It’s a very cute sushi spot with awesome food and drinks. Lastly I would recommend Pinstripes bowling. It’s such a cute date night spot with awesome food, drinks and of course bowling!

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 want to dedicate this shoutout to my amazing mother who has been nothing short of supportive during the entire process, my boyfriend who is always so eager to learn and assist with whatever I need (I love you Nnamdi) and the people who have bought a product, shared my work or simply told me that I make beautiful pieces!

Website: mariamkamara.com

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

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

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mariamkamara_ Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MariamKamaraArt