Mission Statement

“Retracing, recalling, and reclaiming memory through color as language to foster connection and reflection through community- engaged art practice.” -Yaa Bonner

Education

AA degree acquired from Eastern Gateway Community College, with a focus in psychology and arts

Current MFA student at MICA (Maryland Institute College of Art) 2026

Skills

Abstract painting, Lithography, Print-making, Fibers, Co curating, Mural support, Creative writing, Color consulting, Teaching.

Other: Customer service, Community Outreach, Communication, and Organization skills,

training in Suicide Prevention.

Artwork/ Exhibitions

  • Published collaborative art at DHS/ TSA (2016)

  • Artwork held/ sold at The Congress Heights Art Center 2016-Now

  • Art hosted and sold at Art All Night events hosted by The Congress Heights Art Center. 2019-Now

  • Live painting events for CHACC (2022-2023) / Employed Artist Assistant For the Mural at the Sycamore & Oak wellness center in aid to Congress Heights art Center.

  • Commissioned work for Connected to Culture ORG Washington D.C. 2021-Now

  • Art retained by D.C Art Commissions and Gallery (2023) Published on government site.

  • “We Been Here” Eubie Blake Center Baltimore Maryland 2024

  • “Artist Activist” Hurwitz Gallery, Baltimore Maryland 2025

  • “Lift Every Voice” Cahill Recreation Center, Baltimore Maryland 2025

  • “Eddie Conway” The Peale Museum, Baltimore Maryland 2025

Name: Mariah Bonner

Artist Name: Yaa

Address: SE Washington DC 20020

Email: Yaa@yaaiscrossingtheline.com

A little extra

Active painter for 10 years, hosting/ curating community art events, training, and education in art, pedagogy . I’ve live painted for fundraising efforts that resulted in thousands of dollars raised to support organizations in the District of Columbia: CHACC DC, Connected Culture, Anne Beers Elementary, Art of Noize D.C, Project Create. Gallery Assistant at Art of Noize D.C. (2024-2025) Assistant Brush Mural Festival Painter 2025

Awards

Winner and recipient of the 2023 DC Art Bank Grant Award, Artwork is published and will be circulated throughout District Government buildings.

Nominated for a MICA Leadership Award 2026