MJ Viajes is a traveling artist born in Seattle, Washington, who primarily does portrait paintings. Her medium of choice is acrylic and oil paint but is starting to work in the digital medium. She often depicts popular figures and heads of state in a caricature and profound manner. We caught up with her about her recent pieces.

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My style was developed through my minimalistic ideals as a traveling artist. Finding a creative use of limited colors while still creating an impact is very important to me.

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My goal is to capture the essence of my subjects through both colorful and monochromatic techniques within one composition. The use of both techniques allows me to highlight items of interest within each piece and set the mood for each subject.

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My work is inspired by pop culture and the human condition. Each piece is a looking glass into the world as I see it. My portraits depict people who have an impact on me, whether it be a positive or negative one.

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When I decided to do “Inadequate Trump” I painted him the way he looks in my eyes. A bumbling money crazed fool with a small penis complex. When I did “The Star”, a portrait of David Bowie. I wanted to portray him in the highest regard (a deity of sorts).

His groundbreaking style in music and fashion touched a lot of people. He was a beacon of light who inspired people from all walks of life. When he died it was a terrible day for many people.

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