Interview · From the archive

Hawa Maya

Photographer · PG County, MD

Originally published as “8 Creative Questions: An Interview with Photographer Hawa Maya”, May 31, 2016 · See the original

In their words

Hi, my name is Hawa Maya and I’m a photographer from PG County, MD. I’ve been into photography for 8 years, 3 professionally.

01 · On creativity

What does “being creative” mean to you?

Being creative to me means to allow yourself to be honest and vulnerable.
02 · On becoming

Can you describe the time when you first realized that creating was something you absolutely had to do?

I figured photography was my calling when my grandmother fell in love with one of my photographs. It was of three females with African patterns on their faces with their eyes closed and she described a connection to our ancestors.
03 · On rituals

What kind of creative patterns, routines or rituals do you have?

I have to meditate, speak positive words and remind myself that I’m a talented photographer.
“ Being creative to me means to allow yourself to be honest and vulnerable. ”
04 · On favorites

What’s your favorite thing you’ve ever created?

“The Creation of Man” of my current favorite art work that I’ve done so far. It represents Adam forming from dust to man.
05 · On meaning

What are you trying to communicate with your art?

I want to communicate dignity, and unity to my viewers, I want them to feel somewhat empowered or inspired by my work. If I can’t change the world, hopefully I can spark the mind that will.
06 · On what's next

Which creative medium would you love to pursue but haven’t yet?

I would love to get into printmaking if I ever get the chance. I took a class in college and loved it! There are no limits to print making.
07 · On advice

What’s the best advice you ever had about how to be more creative?

The best advice I got about being creative was to not over think, and to stop worrying about other people’s work, and what others will think of it. To completely be yourself and show it in your work. There is no one like you.