Milan Young
Milan Young is an artist based in Washington, D.C
Milan Young is one of ArtConnect’s Artists to Watch '21
Born and raised in Maryland, African American Artist, Milan Young creates work that speaks to her surroundings, thoughts, feelings, and culture within society. Her paintings are at the intersection of Abstract Expressionism, and Fauvism. Her work centers around chaos, and emotions. Growing up Milan often felt alone and completely misunderstood. Now those feelings correlate through her abstract pieces. Milan is an advocate for black women abstract artists.
Carlotta Mazzoli
Curator
“There is a liberating force in Milan Young’s work. Their abstract compositions, paired with pop references, create a powerful dualism. On the one hand, the artist offers a universal space for self-reflection, where everyone can inhabit the colors, shapes, and emotions evoked in each piece. On the other, superimposing her presence through writings and titles, the artist leads us on a journey of discovery, drawing us closer to her inn.”
ArtConnect asked the winning artists to share with us a glimpse into their creative life to get a sense of their personal inspiration and artistic process.
How did you get started as an artist?
When I was five years old my older brother and I were living with our grandmother. The first time I saw his sketches they blew my mind. I didn't understand at the time how someone could produce such amazing work. Years went by and I was drawing daily until I found out about abstract expressionism. That’s when I truly knew my life’s purpose.
How would you describe your artistic approach?
I always say my work is “controlled chaos.”
Milan Young’s Studio
And how about what inspires you?
I believe life inspires me, science, color. One of my biggest inspirations is Mary Lovelace O’Neal. Her work inspires me to live in the moment and create whatever my heart feels in that moment.
What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an artist?
The biggest would probably be trying to get people to take me seriously. I’ve read many publications about how hard it is for artists of color. The one thing I learned is sometimes its not always about your work but who you know.
Milan Young working in a painting
Describe a typical day in the studio/wherever you make your work.
I start the day off with making tea, I have to be in a relaxed state while painting. Most of my canvases I build myself so ill start by building a canvas and stretching it. I spend my whole day painting and I usually have to force myself to stop.
Is there a medium, a process, or a technique that you haven't used in your work yet but would like to try out?
I really want to use a different quality of paint, and try different brushes. Its also a goal of mine to work on a extremely large canvas.
What are you currently working on? Or an upcoming project you want to mention?
Im working on a fairly large piece at the moment and trying to get into more exhibitions.
How does it feel to be selected as an ArtConnect Artist to Watch?
It feels like an absolute goal accomplished, This is so amazing and has honestly made my entire year!
Anything else you want to add?
Thank you.
See more of Claudia’s work
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