Today we’d like to introduce you to Tonya Merta.
Hi Tonya, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I think art has always been my best friend. In my early childhood, there was rarely a problem or pain that an image or a few written words could not help to ease. Although I am drawn to and work with other mediums often, painting specifically became my main means of expression. I believe that a large majority of issues in our world are rooted in miscommunication. My relief is in finding that this miscommunication does not have to exist within my artistic world. Sight and touch lead us to intuitive information—making color and texture a universal language of sorts. This realization is all the motivation I could ask for. Knowing that my work has an innate message, one separate from that which even I place on it, gives me the freedom to turn my passion into a business as well. I started taking custom orders while in my Junior year of high school and made an Etsy and Instagram account for my art. As painting became an even bigger part of my life, college started. I was encouraged not to study art and completed one year of a Psychology degree—painting all the while. Feeling dissatisfied and burnt out since high school, I decided it was time to commit to my goals as an artist. I moved to Austin primarily for the art scene, and within the first few weeks, I was listening to artists speak at galleries, signing up for art shows, and taking on more custom orders. While I do work hard, so much of my success comes purely from the support of others. I try to view myself as a channel, allowing my art to pass through me to its final destination. This mindset has brought the loveliest people into my life and is a constant reminder that the right opportunities will find me.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Part of the reason I want to be an artist is the challenge itself. I’ve been told countless times that I won’t make very much money, that the industry is too oversaturated, that everybody thinks they’re an artist, and that no one makes a masterpiece at 20 years old. Sometimes those comments come from places you’d never expect it. I’d say the hardest part is continuously believing in yourself, having a confidence so unwavering that you can smile, laugh, and sometimes even agree with comments like that. Nodding to them and then going home from an eight hour shift to pick up your paintbrush again—not fully believing that they were wrong. Perseverance is difficult but so worth it.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I primarily work with acrylic paints, specializing in abstract, surreal, and spiritual art. I adore the use of symbolism and layer my pieces heavily with meaning. Texture is a favorite element of mine, specifically multiple fine lines—an almost brail of paint. At live showings, I encourage viewers to touch my work. Being a tactile learner myself, I dream of opening a gallery where touch is always encouraged. While I will paint on almost any surface or size, lately I’ve been gravitating towards doing bigger pieces, even murals.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Some of the best advice I’ve received is to use everything. Don’t limit yourself to one medium, art is too explosive for that. Another good one is to know when to stop yourself. Sometimes we do too much and pass up a masterpiece. But mostly, I’d say that if you feel like you bleed your art, just keep bleeding it.
Pricing:
- Custom orders start at $150
- Prints are ~$25 each
- Woven Blankets/Tapestries- $100
- Stickers ~$3 each
Contact Info:
- Email: mtcm.art44@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/artMTCM
- Instagram: @mtcm.art
- Other: @tonyamerta on TikTok
