I am Tila the Artist, based in Denver, Colorado. My creative journey began in New Mexico, where I was deeply influenced by Native American and Aztec art. Growing up, I was captivated by the beauty of diverse cultures, particularly the strength and resilience of African American communities. This continues to inspire me as I explore themes of identity, emotional and psychological healing, Black culture, and femininity in my work.
Art is my path to healing. After the tragic loss of my brother in 2005, I found peace and beauty through creative expression, where once there was none. Art became my refuge, and in that space, I discovered joy and solace. My work is an exploration of the idea that even in moments of pain and vulnerability, there is beauty to be found. “I may be falling apart, but even that is beautiful, and I’m okay with it” — this is the essence of my creative process.
I work primarily with charcoal, acrylics, and oils, often experimenting with mixed media. My style is bold, colorful, and symbolic, with abstract expressions that capture the complexities of the human experience. Music plays a pivotal role in my creative process; it fuels my work, guiding me through the initial sketch, base layer (underpainting), and the final touches of detail, highlights, and lowlights that bring the piece together.
Through my art, I seek to remind viewers that we are all beautifully and wonderfully made, and that we are divinely connected at our core, regardless of our individual experiences. My goal is to inspire others to embrace their own journey of healing, growth, and self-acceptance.
Although I began my public journey as an artist with a college show, I’ve since sold my work at Denver’s Black Art Festival and Juneteenth. I look forward to returning to these festivals, where I will also have a booth this year. I’ve yet to present my collection, Pieces of Her, to Meow Wolf in Denver, but I aspire to showcase it there when the collection is complete.
I sell my art on my website, Tilatheartist.com, and take selective commissions that align with my values as an artist. My long-term goal is to inspire others, grow my audience, and build a legacy through my work. I hope to create a lasting impact, one that fosters peace, beauty, and connection in the lives of those who experience my art.