Warmth. Joy. Full of life.
These are the qualities that define Mariah Kaminsky’s paintings and murals. Born and raised in northern Indiana as one of six children, Mariah’s artistic instincts were nurtured from an early age. Her keen eye for detail runs in the family—her Great-Great Grandfather was a glass etcher from Alsace Lorraine, and both her father, a mechanical engineer, and her mother, a constant creative inspiration, instilled in her a deep love for craftsmanship and creativity.
Mariah’s professional journey began at Ball State University, where she earned a degree in Design and Technical Theater. This led to a career as a scenic artist, working at playhouses in Indiana and Maine, where she honed her skill for artistic detail. In 2001, after moving to Durango, CO, Mariah co-founded Durango Custom Works with her husband, applying her scenic experience to private homes, businesses, and public spaces. Her many public mural projects transform walls into immersive, narrative-driven experiences.
In 2010, Mariah launched Mariah Kaminsky Fine Art, LLC, where her passion for realism took center stage. A member of the Portrait Society of America and the International Guild of Realism, Mariah specializes in realistic portraits that are as captivating as they are compelling. Her studies with modern-day masters continue to refine her technique, and her current work focuses on children, floral trompe l’oeil, and the female form. These subjects, infused with optimism, resilience, and a touch of humor, reflect Mariah’s desire to bring positivity to a turbulent world. With each new piece, she pushes the boundaries between classical and contemporary styles, inviting viewers into a world where joy and beauty reign.
Mariah lives in Durango, CO with her husband, Jason, and their dog, Henry. When she’s not painting, she enjoys hiking, camping, and traveling, always seeking new sources of inspiration.
A note from the artist about her current work:
Mariah with “Shine On” oil on canvas.
“I paint to tip the scales back toward joy in a world that often feels tipped the other way. Sure, controversy has its place in sparking change, but sometimes it just gets too loud and everyone stops listening. That’s where my work comes in—offering a little break from the noise, a chance to breathe, and a reminder of the simple, beautiful things that can still make us smile.
Each painting I create is a moment of optimism meant to draw attention to the refreshing innocence and joyful realism that we often overlook. My art is about finding joy in the everyday, and I hope it gives both me and the viewer a bit of relief and a reminder of what truly matters.