The Museum of Pop Culture’s mission is to make creative expression a life-changing force by offering experiences that inspire and connect our communities.
'A Hip-Hop Revolution' Mural by Seattle Artist Maya Milton Now on Display Outside 'Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop' Exhibition at MoPOP
"A Hip-Hop Revolution" by Maya Milton
Located just outside the entrance to our newest exhibition, Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop, visitors to MoPOP will now find a new piece of artwork on display. The acrylic paint mural, "A Hip-Hop Revolution," was created by local multimedia artist Maya Milton, who is committed to creating a space that enables Black girls and women to imagine a life beyond the confining structures in which we currently live.
Shortly after the mural's install at MoPOP, we caught up with Maya for a few questions about her work!
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
Maya: "I am a Black woman living in Seattle, WA who is a professional artist and small business owner."
Why do you create art?
Maya: "I create art to empower and uplift Black women as well as place us in God-like positions. Growing up, I rarely saw images that celebrated Black women, so I decided to create them. As a child I knew that I wanted to grow up to be an artist, so with a love for it and blossoming talent I pursed art. My commitment is always to create art that celebrates Black Excellence."
What excited you about the opportunity to create a mural alongside MoPOP's Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop exhibition?
Maya: "Music has always been a part of the soundtrack of my life. My parents and grandparents introduced me to all the ways we could listen to the rhythm and rhythms, from turntables, to cassettes. I enjoyed the beats and memorized the lyrics that were pure poetry. Listening on my I-Pod which, after a bit, transitioned to my phone, I paid attention to the fashion and jewelry that were seen on hip-hop artists. Hip-hop has always told stories of our pain, joys, and struggles, often inspiring us to rise to a challenge.
"My love of hip-hop and positive experiences going to MoPOP both made me extremely excited about this opportunity."
Maya Milton (via 21entities.com)
What inspires your art? How do those inspirations show up in the mural you created for MoPOP?
Maya: "As a Black woman I am inspired by other Black women, our strengths, personal journeys, and differences. Other inspirations include Black and Brown histories, our culture, and music. In the piece I created for MoPOP, these inspirations came together through the colors, devices, and symbolism, specifically the fist which represents strength, power, and togetherness."
Where can we find or follow your art? How can someone support your work?
Maya: "I can be found on Instagram @21entities, as well as my website 21entities.com. I can be reached at 21entities@gmail.com for any inquiries."
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If you like what you see, support our work by making a donation or planning a visit to MoPOP today!