Artist Bio
MJ Okawa is an emerging visual artist whose work celebrates the intricate balance between harmony and diversity, both in the natural world and within human communities. Although MJ has been a lifelong artist and educator, actively teaching visual and performing arts for over 23 years, the journey into the professional art world began in earnest in April 2024. This transition marks a new chapter in a life deeply dedicated to the arts, where MJ is now bringing a wealth of experience, passion, and a fresh perspective to the broader art community.
Born in Mountain View, California, and raised as the youngest of nine children, MJ’s early life was shaped by a deep appreciation for the diversity of life experiences and perspectives. This upbringing, combined with a lifelong fascination with the arts, led MJ to pursue formal education in the field, earning a BFA from Loretto Heights College of Regis University, an MFA from the University of Utah, and an M.Ed. from Santa Clara University.
MJ’s artistic practice is informed by a rich tapestry of knowledge and experiences, where the theme of unity through diversity has been a consistent thread. In MJ’s work, this theme is explored through vibrant silk paintings, dynamic compositions, and a careful study of the natural world, where the coexistence of diverse elements creates a harmonious whole. The use of rich, saturated colors and varied textures is a hallmark of MJ’s style, inviting viewers to reflect on the connections between different forms, ideas, and experiences.
Since beginning this professional journey, MJ’s art has been exhibited in various galleries and art shows, including recent participation in ART Santa Fe 2024 and upcoming exhibitions at the Trinity Art Show in Sacramento and the Tucson International Airport in 2025. Despite being new to the professional scene, MJ’s work has quickly garnered recognition for its ability to evoke a sense of peace and interconnectedness, resonating with viewers on a profound level.
In addition to this emerging career in visual arts, MJ has a strong background in arts leadership, having founded and led two impactful arts organizations, Artworks in California and Copperstar Repertory Co. in Arizona, from 2008-2018. These organizations provided platforms for artists of all backgrounds to come together, fostering a community that celebrates diversity in all its forms. MJ’s leadership in these organizations reflects a deep commitment to the arts as a means of connection and understanding.
Today, MJ continues to create work that reflects a deep reverence for the natural world and a belief in the power of art to bridge divides. As an emerging artist, MJ brings a fresh perspective shaped by decades of teaching and personal exploration in the arts. Each piece is an exploration of how diverse elements can come together to create something beautiful, offering viewers a moment of reflection and inspiration. MJ’s art is not just a visual experience but a call to embrace.