MK - I admire the way you balance your artwork with the hand painted apparel. Which came first, and do you have a preference in medium? 

MP - I appreciate you noticing. It takes a lot of work balancing the different mediums and styles. I love painting. I love fully immersing myself into a painting. Turn off all distractions and dive in. With the clothing, I love connecting with people and seeing them connect with the meaning and messaging behind, “this is an original work of art ™️”. Both the painting and clothing feed different parts of my soul. 2 sides. It must be the Gemini in me. 

Community is everything. Developing connections and relationships is the most important part.

MK - Tell me about the Frank Ocean painting on your feed, and how much music influences your content creation.

MP - I love this question, because music is such a huge part of my expression and creativity. (Side note: I was named after Miles Davis.) Whenever I am working on a painting inspired by an artist or musician, I always listen to their music. Sometimes it’s the same song on repeat. With the Frank Ocean painting, the song you hear in the video is actually a remix I made. I took his vocals and mixed it into one of my instrumentals. The original song is “close to you” on Blonde. Listen to my version and then listen to the original. 

MK - Based on your experience, what advice would you give to aspiring artists looking to collaborate with high-profile brands and establish themselves in the industry?

MP - There is so much out there now and so many different voices. It is really important to have a vision and to make a statement. For me, it’s not about chasing high-profile collabs or breaking into the “industry” it’s about making and creating things you are proud of. Speak your truth and put in the work! I stay focused on remaining independent. If a major brand wants to collaborate, they have to treat me as an equal, because a lot of times, they trying to get as much out of you and pay you as little as possible. Especially when you are starting out. As artists, we are the change makers. We are the voice and expression of our people and our communities. 

MK - How much does community play a part in the development of a brand?

MP - Community is everything. Developing connections and relationships is the most important part. That’s why, back to your previous question, it’s so important to know what you stand for, who you are, and what you are trying to express, because when you know who you are, the right people will come into your circle.