Featured Interview With Mia. MP
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I am a Cuban writer, poet, and photographer based in the USA, where I blend visual arts and storytelling in my work. I hold a degree in Communication Sciences and a postgraduate degree in Education.
I grew up in Cuba, an island rich in cultural and social diversity. From a young age, I was immersed in the vibrant rhythms of Caribbean music, the warmth of my Spanish and African heritage, and the traditions passed down by my grandparents. They taught me to read when I was just four years old, and from that moment, I’ve never gone a day without reading. Their love and wisdom, combined with the multicultural environment I was raised in, deeply influenced my worldview and continue to shape my writing.
Since relocating to Florida in 2011, I’ve exhibited my photography and writing documentary project at the NPTI Gallery and the Coral Gables Museum. In 2021, I held a solo exhibition, “Havana: The Gift of Diversity,” which included an essay and poems about Havana. This work was also published in a book by Gallery TEN in Tokyo, where the exhibition took place.
I am also an animal lover. I had a dog who sadly passed away, and I haven’t yet been strong enough to welcome another into my life. The bond I shared with my dog was special, and while I miss that companionship, I know that in time, I may be ready to embrace another pet.
In addition to my creative work, I teach in Miami, where I inspire my students with a philosophy of lifelong learning and creativity.
At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
Since I was a little girl, my grandparents taught me to read and write, sparking my lifelong fascination with books. When I started school, writing and literature became my favorite subjects. My teachers encouraged me to develop my writing skills, guiding me to create essays, poems, and stories for my classwork.
As I grew older, I began participating in literary workshops and joining reading and writing groups. I consider myself fortunate to come from a homeland rich in extraordinary authors and poets, with multicultural roots that have greatly influenced my writing style. I learned from them and from my family how to write in various poetic forms, including the Spanish décima, sonnets, and ballads.
Since 2003, I have been publishing poetry, stories, and articles. I’ve collaborated with renowned international magazines such as EYE-Photo Magazine, Shades of Grey, Vogue, Azahar (Spain), and Nagari (Miami). When I moved to the USA, I began writing in English as well, so my books are published in both English and Spanish. I am proud to have published two poetry books, with more on the way.
Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
My favorite authors span a wide range of genres, reflecting my diverse literary interests. I’ve always been drawn to the haunting atmospheres of Edgar Allan Poe and Stephen King; whose mastery of suspense and psychological depth greatly influence my own writing. I also admire the evocative poetry of Sylvia Plath and Emily Dickinson, whose works are rich in emotion and introspection, often exploring themes of identity and the complexities of the human condition.
As a bilingual writer, I am deeply inspired by Latin American authors such as Jorge Luis Borges, César Vallejo, and Dulce María Loynaz. Their exploration of identity, memory, and the interplay of language and culture has greatly shaped my own approach to storytelling, especially as I navigate both English and Spanish in my writing.
Ultimately, my inspiration comes from the works of these authors as well as from my own experiences and cultural heritage. I am constantly seeking new ways to blend visual art and writing, and I draw inspiration from the world around me—whether it’s through the lens of a camera or the rhythm of a poem.
Tell us a little about your latest book?
My latest book is At the Same Time, the first in my Inner Journey series. This book combines poetry and fine art photography, creating a multisensory experience centered on healing, self-discovery, and personal growth. The inspiration for this work comes from my own journey of emotional and spiritual transformation. I wanted to share the insights and growth I’ve experienced, while also providing a space for readers to reflect on their own paths toward peace and renewal.
By merging poetry with photography, I aimed to foster a deeper emotional connection, offering readers a unique way to engage with themes like resilience, the passage of time, and self-empowerment. It’s a celebration of art’s transformative power and the healing that arises from embracing both the light and dark aspects of our personal journeys. The photographs were intentionally crafted to complement the verses, enhancing themes like letting go, finding inner peace, resilience, and growth. In this way, the book invites readers to embark on a multisensory journey of healing and self-discovery.
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