Momo: A Multi-Dimensional Artist Blending Intuition, Emotion, and Creativity
- Taylor Duff
- Jan 23
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 25
Written & Photos by Taylor Duff
Momo (They/Them) is an independent artist in Portland, Oregon, known for their multi-faceted creative approach. Their work spans intuitive fine art, tattoo artistry, Akashic reading, and QHHT practice, emphasizing emotional catharsis and self-expression. Momo uniquely combines experimental, raw art with themes of sexuality, body positivity, and exploring the human psyche.
Momo's art journey began early, inspired by their older brother's sketching during church meetings. "I wanted to be as good as he was, which led me to sketch and draw," Momo shares. This early influence paved the way for a diverse artistic career.
The Essence of Momo's Work: Raw, Experimental, and Emotional
Momo's art is experimental, transcending genres and mediums, as they constantly push creative boundaries. "I'm always challenging myself to do new things," Momo says. "It's raw, capturing stories and glimpses into others' and my psyches through emotional catharsis."
Momo's artwork prominently features themes of sexuality, body positivity, and sensuality, influenced by their upbringing in a conservative religious environment. Momo describes their early environment as patriarchal and misogynistic, which led them to draw nude women, an act deemed sinful frequently. This reaction only motivated Momo to explore these themes further in their work.
For Momo, art is a profoundly personal way to connect. They encourage viewers to have their own subjective experiences, often creating without knowing the outcome until it appears on the canvas. While their work is conceptual with intention, it also reflects an alchemy of their inner feelings.
The Struggles of an Independent Artist
While creating art is fulfilling, Momo finds the business side challenging. "I hate marketing," Momo admits. "I'd make art all day if I could, but a career requires pushing, sharing, and promoting it. Listing products, managing inventory, and marketing all give me a headache."
Momo acknowledges that platforms like Instagram have been crucial for reaching new audiences, especially for open calls to artists. However, Momo is reconsidering its focus, as the past year was challenging for markets, resulting in lower earnings and less positive feedback. Despite this, Momo appreciates the free exposure and connections made, emphasizing the importance of spreading art regardless of sales, as people are still looking.
Beyond the digital space, Momo regularly participates in art expos, markets, and events, facing unique challenges. "I joke that my partner is my unpaid employee," Momo laughs, "because they help drive to events, sometimes hours away, like in Eugene. For outdoor markets, I bring a 10x10 canopy tent, which takes two people to set up. I've got it down to a science—it only takes an hour to get everything ready."
Momo has developed an efficient system, but the work continues after the event. "It's a lot of work, but it's rewarding to meet people and see them engage with my art in person."
Finding Joy in the Creative Process
Despite the challenges, creating art is deeply satisfying for Momo. "I get overwhelmed with ideas and inspiration," Momo says. "The most gratifying part is step three of the process, when the vision I saw in my head starts emerging. That's when it comes together after the rough, ugly stages, and it's most satisfying to see the study come to life."
This balance of raw emotional energy, creative experimentation, and the pursuit of new visions fuels Momo's passion for their work.
Being a self-employed artist blurs the line between work and life. Momo admits, "I feel like my work mode never shuts off. I love creating art, so it doesn't feel like work, but I still try to do marketing. I often find myself thinking about listing products or editing videos even when exhausted. It's hard, but making a to-do list helps. I've learned it's better for my sanity if I don't complete it daily."
Momo continues to refine the art of balancing creativity with practicalities, but they've found solace in the small victories—the moments when their work truly comes to life.
Long-Term Goals: Dreams of Galleries and Patrons
Momo dreams of showcasing their art in global galleries and hopes for a wealthy patron to support their artistic endeavors. They acknowledge the uncertainty of this goal but remain hopeful.
Momo's journey exemplifies the resilience and passion of independent artists balancing creation and business. Their diverse skills, emotional expression, and drive to grow make their future in the art world promising.
Want to learn more about Momo? Check them out at:
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