Maya Shae, born in 1990 in Tallahassee, Florida, employs the power of juxtaposition as both a visual and conceptual tool in her artistic practice. Her work delves into the contemporary African American millennial experience by utilizing figuration within her paintings. Through her art, Shae shines a spotlight on the richness and diversity of Black perspectives, challenging conventional portrayals by revealing the multifaceted, intricate, and prolific nature of Black identities. Shae’s subjects, often captured through her own photography or inspired by social media posts, intertwine with allegorical elements rooted in culture, politics, and history. This fusion compels viewers to embark on an introspective journey, encouraging them to scrutinize their subconscious perceptions in order to decipher the deeper meanings embedded in her creations.
Currently, she serves as a teaching artist at multiple renowned institutions, including the Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of Art & Design, Paul Robeson Galleries, and the Studio Institute.
Education:
2016 Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University, Bachelor of Arts, Fine Arts
Selected Exhibitions:
2021 621 Gallery, “An Introduction to Black Female Millennial Art,” Tallahassee, FL
2020 Foster Tanner Fine Arts Gallery, “VOICES of FAMU Art Program,” Tallahassee, FL
2019 Newark Arts Festival, “Interrogations: Artists at Work,” Newark, NJ
2019 The Bishop Gallery, “Still Nigga,” Brooklyn, NY
2016 Gallery Aferro, Newark Arts Festival, Newark, NJ
2015 Foster Tanner Fine Arts Gallery, “A White Man’s Nightmare,” Tallahassee, FL
2014 Gallery Retail, “Space & Opportunity,” Newark, NJ
Residencies:
2022-23 Florida Anti-Protest Law Artist Residency, Community Justice Project, Tallahassee, FL (Nov 8, 2022 – Aug 19, 2023)
Publications and Media:
Houston, Monica: “The Oppressive White Man’s Worst Nightmare.” The Commonwealth Times, vol. 57, no. 10, November 2015. Page 1.
Mitchell, LaCrai: “Chain of Parks Art Festival Considered a Success.” Capital Outlook, vol. 41, no 13, April 2015. Page 7.
Eyrie Art & Literature Magazine, vol. 31. May 2013. Page 6.
