by Mirna Tawiah
Oil on Canvas
16” x 12” x 1”
Mirna Tawiah is a San Diego–based multidisciplinary artist working across oil painting, pastel, and detailed pen techniques. While her practice spans multiple mediums, she is currently exploring oil painting through a classical lens, inspired by Renaissance portraiture and the emotional depth found in museum works she encountered throughout Europe.
Her work often centers on femininity, quiet resilience, and the intimacy of light. Whether through layered oils or meticulous mark-making, Mirna approaches each piece with patience and intention. She is drawn to softness, subtle expression, and creating artwork that feels timeless yet personal, inviting viewers to slow down and connect.
I paint in oils because I love how slow and intentional the process feels. There’s something about building layers, adjusting light, and watching a face come to life over time that feels deeply personal to me. I’m especially drawn to feminine subjects, dramatic lighting, and the softness found in quiet moments. After visiting museums in Europe, I felt a shift in my work. I became more inspired by Renaissance portraiture, the richness of color, the intimacy, the way light gently shapes the figure. My goal isn’t just realism, but emotion. I want my paintings to feel warm, timeless, and reflective, like a moment you’ve stepped into rather than just something you’re looking at.
by Mirna Tawiah
Oil on Canvas
16” x 12” x 1”
Mirna Tawiah is a San Diego–based multidisciplinary artist working across oil painting, pastel, and detailed pen techniques. While her practice spans multiple mediums, she is currently exploring oil painting through a classical lens, inspired by Renaissance portraiture and the emotional depth found in museum works she encountered throughout Europe.
Her work often centers on femininity, quiet resilience, and the intimacy of light. Whether through layered oils or meticulous mark-making, Mirna approaches each piece with patience and intention. She is drawn to softness, subtle expression, and creating artwork that feels timeless yet personal, inviting viewers to slow down and connect.
I paint in oils because I love how slow and intentional the process feels. There’s something about building layers, adjusting light, and watching a face come to life over time that feels deeply personal to me. I’m especially drawn to feminine subjects, dramatic lighting, and the softness found in quiet moments. After visiting museums in Europe, I felt a shift in my work. I became more inspired by Renaissance portraiture, the richness of color, the intimacy, the way light gently shapes the figure. My goal isn’t just realism, but emotion. I want my paintings to feel warm, timeless, and reflective, like a moment you’ve stepped into rather than just something you’re looking at.
