MiracleArts Interviews: Tamina Muhammad

Tamina Muhammad

Meet Tamina Muhammad an African American Muslim artist blending her New Jersey roots, urban street style, and cultural heritage into bold, vibrant art. Based in St. Paul, she’s a lead teaching artist with Eastside Arts Council and a Minnesota Art Battle winner. Her upcoming showcase, Art Through the Ages, runs August 14–17 and features community-created paintings inspired by life in the Twin Cities. Designed to be inclusive and accessible, the event invites all ages and skill levels to explore creativity, connection, and self-expression.

Can you share a bit about your multicultural background and how it has influenced your creative journey?

I attribute a lot of my influences in my artistic journey significantly to my multicultural heritage. As an African American Muslim woman, with Native American and Trinadadian roots has made me try to connect them by drawing upon my experiences and background to infuse my art with warm, bold, and vivid colors, showcasing strong women and motherhood aiming to evoke emotion in viewers. Time spent in various locations, from my home in New Jersey influencing an urban, freestyle works, to Arizona shaping my understanding of southwestern art, has further enriched my creative process.

How do you typically find out about local art resources and opportunities?

I typically search on social media like Instagram and Facebook groups which are very helpful. Connecting with the artist community is very beneficial because you build strong relationships and do collaborative projects and you get recommendations that lead to other jobs and connections. Sharing your art is another great way for people to see what you do and may want your services. Having a website is also very important and marketing. 

You’ve been involved with Eastside Arts Council’s ArtMobile, can you tell us more about your role and what that experience has been like?

I have been a lead artist for the Eastside Arts Council's Artmobile program for about 10 years now. My role involves teaching free, drop-in art classes to youth in East St. Paul community parks, recreation centers, and libraries throughout the summer. I also work alongside an intern and other guest artists to provide these creative opportunities. The experience of being involved with Artmobile has been a significant transition for me, I’ve been an art instructor for the City of St. Paul recreational centers quite a few years. This position with the Eastside Arts Council has provided me with extensive exposure, allowing me to connect with other artists in the community. It also led to me having my own showcase with ESAC, where I was recognized as a "Minnesota A-list Artist." The program aims to keep at-risk kids and teens engaged and foster their creativity by bringing art supplies and professional artists directly into the community. This program is very needed, and I hope that it continues in the future. 

You studied illustration at Pratt Institute in Manhattan. What’s one unforgettable lesson or moment you took away from your time there?

Pratt institute shaped me very drastically at an early age to be ready for the world and its criticism. The instructors in the school were very direct and strict with what they were looking for, so you had to always strive to bring your A game. I guess as a young artist then I use to have a lot of self-doubt and there was a very influential professor that looked at my work and told me to be able to do what I do so young and effortlessly that requires a certain amount of confidence in oneself so hold tight to that and never strive to please others . When you love what you do and do what you love, that's where the magic happens. 

What inspired you to create your signature stencil line, Tamina Rockin Graffiti?

My New Jersey upbringing inspired my Graffiti stencil line with Diva Stencils. I’m known as a Street-artist with a Freestyle Urban style . Growing up in the streets of N.J. And N.Y my signature designs were fantasy characters and lettering. I was a big part of the 90s hip hop scene dance and graffiti culture.  Through the years my art has always had an edgy look which I incorporated into the face painting community and got a lot of recognition which connected me to Diva Stencils where I became a Sponsored artist. I am now creating my own line called Urban Flare Stencils, a continuation of my Graffiti line. 

You have won multiple Minnesota Art Battles, what is that experience like, and how did it challenge or energize you as an artist?

It has been an honor to compete against some of the best and most creative artists I’ve ever met. The opportunities have been immense after being a part of ArtBattle for the last few years. Making connections and collaborating with artists have allowed me to be inspired to try new things and also push myself outside of my comfort zone. I’m so grateful for the experience that Artbattle has given me just to share in such an intense live public platform. The support of the audience and feedback motivates you to continue to strive to reach new levels and explore new areas of creativity. Making people smile and reflect on my images is very rewarding because as an artist we just express what’s within us and try to convey it to be received. 

Your upcoming community showcase, Art Through the Ages, runs August 14–17. What’s the vision behind this event and what can attendees expect?

The decision to offer these classes stemmed from a desire to share my passion and make art accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or perceived skill level. I've often heard people say, "I'm not artistic" or "I can't even draw a stick figure." My response is always the same: creativity isn't about innate talent; it's about willingness to explore, experiment, and enjoy the process. These classes are designed to simplify art, breaking down barriers and inviting individuals to discover the artist within themselves. Also providing an environment where people feel comfortable taking risks, making mistakes, and celebrating their unique perspectives of what we teach. It's an opportunity to unplug, de-stress, and engage in an activity that fosters mindfulness and self-discovery in a community setting. 

Attendees of the showcase can expect a vibrant impactful journey through paintings that reflect Minnesota’s related themes of nature's beauty, travel, historic landmarks, landscapes, seasons, experiences, pleasure and joy. The exhibit is designed to be interactive and inclusive, encouraging dialogue, empathy, and reflection. I hope guests leave feeling more connected to their community and inspired to contribute their own voice and experiences through art. 

For those interested in starting a similar community-focused project, what advice would you offer them as they begin?

I would begin with identifying the gaps in whatever program you chose to do. Is there an age group underserved? How can I make my program or project more accessible to all community needs? Factor cultural backgrounds making sure programs are relevant and inclusive. Build strong partnerships by connecting with other artists and organizations. Try to secure funding researching grants, sponsorships, fundraising and so much more. 

Connect with Tamina

Website: facebook.com/taminadesigns
Instagram: @taminafunfaces
Facebook: facebook.com/taminafunfaces