I am Miranda Wildman, the atmospheric art witch.
My pronouns are she/her/hers.
I am currently living on the ancestral Indigenous lands of the Cherokee East, Yuchi, Catawba and Miccosukee Peoples known presently as Western North Carolina.
Art is for Everyone.
That is what I believe.
As an artist I am exploring the ways in which capitalism is at play in our daily lives, in history and in the future. Within current systems worldwide, art and art making have been known to be only for the elite. I am here to continue, as many artists have, to help dispel this binary. We do not have to claim to be artists, have a degree in art, or know how to draw, knit or paint to make art. We do not even need “art” materials to make art. Using items we might already have surrounding us, we can create. And we don't have to spend a lot of money or time or have a huge space to make art. As for collecting, we don’t need to be rich or have a formal education in art history to deserve or understand the feeling of joy that art brings when surrounded by it. We do not have to have a certain eye to be able to collect art we love.
…more to come here soon!
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In my work as a creative guide and atmospheric art witch I roll with the seasons and I draw inspiration from my environment, nature magic, dreams, childhood memories and the people I love. My focus when I create is on the process and the play. This is the same for art parties I host. We don’t worry about the outcome. Instead, we experiment, we pause, we try new things, we play.
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acrylic paint, watercolor paint, paper, cyanotype, gold leaf, canvas, wood, vintage textiles, candlelight, music, botanicals
I strive to source ethically made art supplies that embody a commitment to both creativity and conscience. As much as possible I search for and sample non-toxic pigments and recycled materials. It is important to me that I buy art materials from companies where safe working conditions and fair wages for workers are prioritized, ensuring that the creation of art supplies uplifts communities and supports their livelihoods. The quality of art materials we use also matters! When we use quality art materials we can focus on enjoying the process and reduce the chance of getting stuck or frustrated with lack luster materials. I also believe tin using “what we have” to make art and that we do not have to spend a lot of money to create art. There is a balance you see!
“Do you already know that your existence—who and how you are—is in and of itself a contribution to the people in the place around you? Not after or because you do some particular thing, but simply the miracle of your life. And that the people around you, and the place(s), have contributions as well? Do you understand that your quality-of-life and your survival are tied to how authentic and generous the connections are between you and the people and place you live with and in? ”
In 2024 I will be sharing a portion of my profits with The Mountain Area Abortion Doula Collective (MAADCo) who offer phone support, practical support, and abortion care packages to folks seeking abortion in and around Asheville, NC.
MAADCo is important to me because they offer their services to people of all gender identities looking for confidential and safe abortions. In a country increasingly controlling to those seeking abortion and reproductive care, MAADCo provides that confidentially and safety that people need and desire.
“MAADCo was formed in response to the lack of gender-inclusive practical support for folks seeking abortion in and around Asheville. MAADCo members believe that access to abortion is a vital part of bodily autonomy, and that doulas are invaluable in supporting folks in that process. ”
Why book Custom Art Parties with Miranda?
I believe that art making is for everyone. We all deserve to experience and celebrate our creative essence by way of making art.
Art is a vibrant expression of human creativity that knows no bounds. However, in the world of art, gatekeeping has long been a prevalent issue. Gatekeeping refers to the practice of controlling access to and determining the worth or legitimacy of artistic expression. By imposing rigid standards or setting boundaries, people who gatekeepe have historically limited the diversity and inclusivity of art. It is crucial to recognize that art is subjective, and everyone's perspective and experience deserve validation. Embracing a more inclusive and open-minded approach to art can foster a richer and more diverse artistic landscape, allowing for the celebration of a multitude of voices and perspectives. Only by dismantling the walls of gatekeeping can we truly appreciate the vast beauty that art has to offer.
What to expect at an art party with Miranda?
Art is For Everyone!
All art materials + gentle, creative guidance included and no experience needed at art parties with Miranda
All ages welcome (folks under 13 should be accompanied by adult) to attend art parties with Miranda
All gender identities welcome to attend art parties with Miranda
All art parties with Miranda are come as you are, judgment free zones:
Approaching art making in a playful way without judgement frees us from the constraints of perfection allowing space for self-reflection, connection to others, and straight up joy.
Making art together in a space without judgement challenges pre-conceived notions about what art “should be” and inspires dialogue, cultivating understanding and compassion.
A non-judgmental approach to making art encourages the celebration of diverse perspectives because each person brings their own unique background, experiences, and culture to their creations.
What will we do during art parties with Miranda?
We will be experimenting playfully with color, texture, and shape to create one of a kind mementos. We will focus on the process and not the product. Each art party is about 3 hours long.
We may use art materials such as watercolor paint, acrylic paint, paper, cyanotype, fabrics, textiles, pencils, pens, and even household items like coffee grounds or tinfoil.
I will gently guide you through the creative process, ensuring that everyone feels inspired and encouraged regardless of age or skill level.
Everyone will go home with their own unique art and memories of merriment and making art together!
I invite us to immerse ourselves in a world of colors, shapes, textures, lighting, and sound!
What is the atmosphere like at an art party with Miranda?
Along with all art materials and creative guidance, I set the tone for belonging, ease, and comfort by way of atmospheric styling, a phrase I use to describe my unique process of preparing a space for an art party. I’m your atmospheric art witch!
I build welcoming and festive atmospheres with elements such as textiles, fabrics, candelabras + candlesticks, artwork, ambient lighting, music and botanicals.
As I create, I think of what makes up an ambience that leaves a deeply fulfilling and lasting impression on guests. My meticulous attention to detail ensures that everyone feels like they are receiving a warm hug as well as a spark of inspiration when they step into the space.
Imagine your guests entering a cozy room with ambient lighting, sitting down at a table bedecked with art supplies that invite them to settle in and truly be themselves!
Whether you are hosting your event at home, at a restaurant or bar, at a hotel, in a sprawling warehouse, in a cozy barn, on a beach, or in a treehouse on top of a mountain…through a harmonious blend of colors, textures, shapes, lighting, and sound, my atmospheric styling sets the stage for an unforgettable, cozy, and artful experience.
Every Art Party includes my atmospheric styling eye!
What kinds of materials do we art party with?
I strive to source ethically made art supplies that embody a commitment to both creativity and conscience. As much as possible I search for and sample non-toxic pigments and recycled materials. It is important to me that I buy art materials from companies where safe working conditions and fair wages for workers are prioritized, ensuring that the creation of art supplies uplifts communities and supports their livelihoods. The quality of art materials we use also matters! When we use quality art materials we can focus on enjoying the process and reduce the chance of getting stuck or frustrated with lack luster materials. I also believe tin using “what we have” to make art and that we do not have to spend a lot of money to create art. There is a balance you see!
All art parties are offered at sliding scale prices.
Why Sliding Scale Pricing?
I understand that planning an art party involves numerous factors, such as venue selection, party supplies, food, and vendor fees. We want to ensure that cost is not a barrier for you and your guests to enjoy an art party. Sliding scale pricing allows us to cater to diverse financial situations, making art accessible to everyone. This flexible model encourages inclusivity and provides affordable options for individuals and groups, regardless of their budget.
How Does Sliding Scale Pricing Work?
My sliding scale pricing system allows you to choose a fee within a range that suits your financial means while simultaneously supporting myself and potential assistants. The pricing structure is designed to offer fairness and transparency. Simply choose from our predetermined range of prices that you feel comfortable with. We trust that you will participate with integrity and select the option most suitable for your circumstances.
Are you ready to art party?
Whether it's a birthday celebration, and evening soiree to celebrate moving into a new home, a team-building event, or a social gathering of any kind, my art parties come complete with art supplies, creative guidance, and ambience that allows hosts to relax and fully enjoy the occasion alongside their guests.
Booking art parties with me promises an extraordinary event that sparks creativity, encourages bonding, and creates lasting, joyful memories for everyone!
