Mia Taninaka on motherhood, art and why she is teaching her children to lead a creative life.
Mia Taninaka on motherhood, art and why she is teaching her children to lead a creative life.
Known for her mesmerising paintings, Mia Taninaka explores the layers that sit just beyond everyday life in her work. Here she shares how her art has become more intuitive after becoming a mother and why her motherhood journey is ever-evolving.
I like to explore the hidden realms, both seen and unseen. I’ve always felt there’s more than what we see on the surface, that everything holds meaning, that everything is alive in some way. I’m definitely an animist at heart.
That perspective naturally filters into my work. It’s an invitation, really, to look a little deeper, to question what’s in front of us, and to open up to the more expansive, limitless layers of life.
What are some things that Motherhood has taught you about yourself and revealed?
I’m coming out of the baby stage now, with my youngest (of three) just turning seven, so motherhood feels really different to how it did in the beginning. It’s still evolving, and so is my understanding of it.
The biggest takeaway has been patience, constant growth, and learning who I am — what drives me, what triggers me, and how to show up in a way my kids can actually learn from. Not by being perfect, but by making mistakes with integrity and owning them. A big part of that now is teaching them how to live and lead a creative life. One that takes courage, but ultimately comes back to happiness.
Are there any particular works you have created that visually represent the above?
Not directly, but a lot of my recent work explores moving through challenge - those darker, uncertain phases, and coming out the other side.
Parenthood feels similar in that way. There’s no going back, you just keep moving forward. And over time, you get better at trusting that there is light ahead, even when you’re in it.
Motherhood has many stages. As a mother of 3 boys, what has been your favourite?
Right now is really fun - they’re all a bit bigger, it’s loud and chaotic in the best way. But I did love those early years too, when they were so little, snuggly, and completely obsessed with you. Something about having a baby fall asleep on you is one of the best feelings in the world.
Did you experience a shift or evolution in your style throughout your pregnancies?And how would you say your style has evolved between now and then?
Definitely. Before kids, my work was very detailed and controlled - lots of fine, neat acrylic work.
Now I paint with oils and it’s loosened up a lot. There’s still layering, but it’s more fluid, more intuitive. I’m less interested in being precise and more open to letting the work breathe. It gives the viewer more space to interpret what they’re seeing, rather than me dictating it.
Raising a family and creating as an artist, what are some rituals that help you return back to Yourself?
I make sure I carve out solid “me time.” I have a regular meditation and kriya/breathwork practice that keeps me grounded, and I also go to yoga a few times a week. Beach walks are a big one too.
Any solo time, really, feels essential - not just for my creative headspace, but to show up well as a parent and partner. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
Are there any upcoming projects you are excited about and can share with us
I’m working on a fun design project with my sister and a friend, which we’re hoping to launch later in the year.
And there are a few painting ideas swirling that I’m really looking forward to bringing to life over the next few months.