Profile

Current student at MICA studying art and Community Arts Independent/ self-taught artist

with a focus on abstract, multimedia, and line work. Focusing on shapes, textures, and paint

layering to create concepts and visuals that are mentally stimulating. Playful colors come from childhood memories and memorable cartoons, books, movies.

Education

AA degree acquired from Eastern Gateway Community College, with a focus in psychology and

Current MFA student at MICA (Maryland Institute College of Art)

Skills

Skills in curating, Melding psychological exercises to art for children, and working with heavy-body acrylics.

Self-taught abstract artist with skills in maneuvering shapes and lines. Proficient in

screen printing.

-Other: Customer service, community outreach, communication, and organization skills,

training in suicide prevention.

Artwork/ Exhibitions

  • Published collaborative art at DHS/ TSA (2016)

  • Artwork held/ sold at The Congress Heights Art Center 2016-current day

  • Art hosted and sold at Art All Night events hosted by The Congress Heights Art Center.

  • Live painting events for CHACC (2022-2023) / Employed Artist Assistant For the Mural at the Sycamore & Oak wellness center in aid to Congress Heights art Center.

  • Commission work for Connected to Culture ORG

  • Art retained by D.C Art Commissions and Gallery (2023) Published on government site.

Name: Mariah Bonner

Artist Name: Yaa

Address: SE Washington DC 20020

Email: Yaa@yaaiscrossingtheline.com

Experience

Active painter for 10 years, hosting/ curating community art events, training, and education in

art related psychology for children. Fundraising efforts and live painting that resulted in

thousands of dollars for organizations in the District of Columbia. Current Gallery Assistant at Art of Noize D.C. (2024-2025)

Awards

Winner and recipient of the 2023 DC Art Bank Grant Award, Artwork is published and will be circulated throughout District Government buildings.