Mike Maka: Finding Beauty in Impermanence
January 15, 2025
In the heart of Manhattan, amidst the relentless rhythm of the city, a vibrant mural invites passersby to pause and reflect. Created by Melbourne-based artist Mike Maka, this large-scale piece is more than just a splash of color; it’s a statement about nature, memory, and the human experience in urban landscapes. Maka, a self-described wall painter, offers a unique perspective shaped by years of working as a bike messenger in New York City and his deep connection to the streets he paints on. Through his murals, Maka intertwines themes of nature, community, and personal experience. His art doesn’t just decorate the city—it transforms urban walls into canvases of thought and dialogue. Let’s delve into the mind and process of an artist who finds joy in creating fleeting moments of wonder on the walls of bustling cities. This is Mike Maka.
The Snail: A Message to Slow Down
Maka’s Manhattan mural on East 3rd Street pays homage to a previous work in Brooklyn, now obscured by new construction. That mural featured a snail, a symbol of slowing down amidst the hustle of city life. “There are a number of different ideas in this mural,” Maka explains. “Like many projects I do, it’s about nature fighting back and the relationship between humans and nature. The snail embodies a slower, more intentional pace of life—a message to New Yorkers that we can all slow down a little bit.” The snail also holds personal significance for Maka, recalling his time as a bike messenger carrying his “life in a bag” through Manhattan’s chaotic streets. The mural’s ecosystem within the snail reflects a balance between urban and natural worlds, encouraging viewers to appreciate the beauty in impermanence.
Creating in Chaos: The Challenges of Urban Art
Painting in a city like Manhattan comes with unique challenges. As Maka worked on this mural, he contended with construction noise, sirens, and even a car alarm blaring for half an hour. “For this mural specifically, concrete was being poured as I painted,” he recalls. Despite these distractions, Maka embraces the unpredictability, finding inspiration in the dynamic energy of the environment. The physical challenges of large-scale mural work also come into play. “The hardest thing about this project was definitely that I had a ladder that was not quite tall enough,” Maka shares. “It’s dangerous, but there’s a bit of adrenaline involved. It’s part of the process.”
Connecting with Community Through Murals
One of the most rewarding aspects of street art for Maka is the interaction with the local community. “Painting in public, you’re always a magnet for people,” he says. “People often feel obliged to give you their opinion. It’s generally positive and adds to the experience.” Maka's connection to the neighborhood is evident in the mural’s details. The flowers he painted, including Asiatic lilies and pansies, were suggested by a neighbor. “I asked her to recommend flowers to say thanks to the neighborhood,” Maka explains. These elements personalize the artwork and strengthen its ties to the community.
Symbolism and Technique: Bringing Vision to Life
Maka’s mural incorporates symbolic elements that hold deep meaning. The wheel in the mural is a nod to his bike messenger days, while the flowers reflect the natural beauty found in urban settings. The mural’s vibrant colors and intricate textures were achieved using a mix of aerosol, brushwork, and rollers. “I tried to create an ecosystem within the snail,” he says. “It’s a back-and-forth process of making texture, making a mess, and polishing until it feels complete.”
Public Art: A Dialogue Between City and Nature
Maka views public art as an essential element of healthy urban communities. “Public art in any form—murals, sculptures, drawings on the ground—is a sign of a vibrant community where people can express themselves,” he reflects. While the impermanence of street art can be disheartening, it also fosters experimentation and creativity. “There’s beauty in knowing it won’t last. It allows me to take risks and try new things.”
A Splash of Color and a Moment of Reflection
At its core, Maka’s art aims to bring joy and provoke thought. “I hope it gives people a splash of color and a reason to smile,” he says. “But beyond that, I want it to encourage viewers to slow down and reflect.” His murals remind us that even in the chaos of urban life, there’s room for connection, contemplation, and wonder.
Through his work, Mike Maka bridges the gap between nature and city, creating art that resonates with the rhythm of urban life while inviting us to embrace its fleeting beauty. To explore more of Maka’s art, follow him on Instagram @mike.makatron, and visit our website for additional stories celebrating the transformative power of public art. Contact Seminal Today. Sign up to our Newsletter.
