Meet Miri P. | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Miri P. and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Miri, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Throughout my entire life I have been an impulsive decision maker. I used to think this was the same as taking risks, but instead it’s just lack of preparation. Starting my career as an artist was a risk I have been preparing myself for, for a long time. Prior to starting ‘Miri P.’ I was Miranda, and I worked for a non-profit mental health clinic for at risk youth. Leaving this job was a major risk, which lead to me moving to Puerto Rico for a few months to begin my work as an artist. I was (maybe still am) terrified about the decisions that I have made. The type of fear I feel is the one that creates that voice in your head; ‘you cannot do it’, and ‘you are not good enough’. Taking risks is the decision to ignore this voice. Risk in my life has has meant believing in myself. Taking risks as an artist, is a necessary evil. Taking risks is a practice of confidence, knowing that even if it flops, there was growth in the process. Now I am back in Miami, ready to embrace all the risks that come my way in order to grow as an artist.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art has always been very vibrant, childlike and colorful. Right now in my practice, I am focusing on Miami’s many ecosystems, from the bar scene, to my Dad’s garden. I am so proud of my development with colored pencils because of the amount of detail I have been able to accomplish with a tool that makes me feel like a kid again. When I draw I always look for that feeling, how it felt to play as a kid. I have been making art since I was 12 years old, and just now; at 23; am I starting to really feel proud, accomplished and like this could really do something for me. Could be a lack of confidence or extra motivation in my 20’s, either way it’s working. I have to remind myself everyday that I am that b*tch and there is only one Miri P. and with that attitude I can continue to do what I do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love this question. I mean the second they get here, there coming home with me to eat some of my mom’s food. Best in Miami and I am sorry for those who haven’t had the chance to eat it.
Oddly I think I would want to take them bowling. I love bowling and I think bowling alleys say a lot about a place. We are going to bird bowl, not splitsville. Once that’s done we’re getting ready for the club. One of my favorite parts about the weekend is getting all sexy and being seen. I am a Leo. I will dance anywhere there is good music, but if I have to chose one place, let’s do Better Days in Brickell.
Then we end the night at Las Rosas because you have to throw a dive bar with a pool table and cheap drinks in the mix.
The next morning, or early afternoon (because we have no choice but to sleep in) we are going to brunch at Bach or The Citadel, to nurse our hangovers with bottomless mimosas. Now we hit the beach meet some crazies, get a little silly and find ourselves in some trouble. If we hit Miami Beach, and coming from brunch… we are most likely going to Ocean and 7th. If we are feeling a little sleepier or calmer maybe ocean and 1st would be better.
I would never let someone leave Miami without going to Villain Theatre, to watch some great standup in a queer friendly environment.
Throughout the rest of the week I would want to focus on food, places like Union on Calle 8, Chuggs Diner in Coconut Grove, Red Rooster (super cute date spot) and lots more local secrets 😉.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
@nanichi.pr (Anais Rosado) has created the space for me to believe in my self. Starting as a vendor, Anais shared every table, resource and event with me. They introduced me to business owners that helped me along the way and gave me critical advice in creating my work into a business. Anais has been my best friend for almost 10 years, and they were always my biggest fan. I am so grateful to her.

Website: www.platanopal.com

Instagram: @platanitaart