For our latest In My Minga Artist Series, we’re honored to highlight Diné photographer Tyana Arviso, whose work captures the quiet power and soul of the Southwest. Rooted in the desert landscapes that raised her, Tyana brings an intuitive eye for light, storytelling, and the subtle beauty of place.
We recently collaborated with her on a western hat inspired by her love for the desert, and we’re so excited to have her in this series to get to know her and her inspiration more deeply. Through her words and images, Tyana invites us into the creative world she’s shaping with intention, resilience and a deep reverence for the land.
Firstly, tell us who you are, where you come from and how your universe, within and without, is currently feeling?
My name is Tyana Arviso. I am a freelance artist and photographer based in the high desert of Colorado. Highlighting the beauty of the southwest, from vast vistas to desert flora, using photography to interpret my visual perspective.
I’ve recently stepped away from the business side of photography. It was time to say farewell to my print shop. The decision was ultimately the smartest thing to do for my business. I intuitively felt that keeping the print shop alive was not beneficial to my wellbeing. In the beginning, I felt like it aligned with myself as an artist, but as time went on, I found that it was no longer serving me mentally, emotionally, and financially, so I said my farewells and faced the emotions that came along with it. My world turned upside down as emotions plagued. I felt like I was breaking up with my biggest love in the world. In the past couple years as an artist, I’ve stood confidently by my work, and this decision felt like it was confronting my confidence. I recognized fear, and we were dancing together at that moment.
Somehow, the universe did its magic, and opportunity was revealed. A mentor from my past reached out and asked if I would join their team. Three months later, and my life inside and out has completely changed for the better. My print shop still remains closed, and I am less active on social media. I continue to create, and I am much happier.
Are there any projects/purposes/causes that you currently hold dearly that you would like to bring awareness to through this space? Any support you might need to fulfill them?
I’ve recently had a couple projects that I hold dearly. Last year I launched an exclusive print collection with Banana Republic, which has been an exciting ride to see it unveil. As a photographer, I’ve always dreamt of creating some form of stationary, and this year I launched my very first set of notecards with Chronicle Books. “Dreamy Desert Notes” includes 20 different notecards highlighting the southwest. “Dreamy Desert Notes” is available at Barnes & Noble and Chronicle Books.
As for future projects, I have a collaborative exhibition this September at Arcadia Contemporary Gallery in Soho, NYC. Titled “Far West,” an exhibition featuring a handful of talented artists highlighting the beauty of the West.
Although my social media presence has taken a bit of a hiatus here and there, exciting things are happening behind the scenes. I feel supported in all the right places, looking forward to where the journey takes me.
Could you please share about how Mother Nature became your muse and why she continues to be it throughout your work?
I’m not sure how mother nature became my muse. I believe that I was lucky enough to recognize her beauty. We fall into the trivial ways of life, often forgetting to stop and recognize the beauty of Mother Earth. She continues to be represented throughout my work because she continues to remain even through all my phases in life. What I choose to share is only a crumb of what she selflessly gives.
Could you please share how your indigenous roots have informed and shaped your experience as an artist and creative?
I believe that my parents had a strong influence in shaping my experience as an artist and creative. Both of my parents are artists and have always encouraged self-expression. I believe that as Diné women, it is within our spirit to show respect to Mother Earth and all that she provides. It is our way of being that comes with birth.
What inspires you to create, and what is it about photography that made it your preferred medium?
Inspiration seems a bit tricky these days. I've found inspiration in conversation, nostalgia, music, light, and so many unexpected ways. Sometimes I even inspire myself. Photography is my chosen medium because it’s what feels right within my soul. It is an intuitive language
We are so grateful to have you in the Minga community! We’re curious, what are your favorite Minga products and how do you use them?
Of course, my favorites have to be the Karina Wool Cowboy Hat or our new Tyana x Minga hat. They've both served me well, particularly during the winter. I’ve used both during rainy moments, keeping me dry, and snowy seasons, keeping me warm.
Anything else you’d like to share? How can we stay in touch with you?
Although I’ve taken a step back from Instagram, I still find time to post when I can. You’re welcome to follow along my creative journey and see what unfolds as time goes on. Thank you for reading my story!
