I'm a visual artist based in Marquette, Michigan, exploring storytelling through painting, photography, and public art. My practice includes gallery shows, murals, and collaborative community projects that invite people to engage with color, texture, and meaning. I love turning spaces into living canvases and working with clients and communities to bring ideas to life, whether through studio pieces or large-scale installations. Let's create something expressive and lasting together.

Taryn Okesson

I'm a visual artist based in Marquette, Michigan, exploring storytelling through painting, photography, and public art. My practice includes gallery shows, murals, and collaborative community projects that invite people to engage with color, texture, and meaning. I love turning spaces into living canvases and working with clients and communities to bring ideas to life, whether through studio pieces or large-scale installations. Let's create something expressive and lasting together.

Available to hire

I’m a visual artist based in Marquette, Michigan, exploring storytelling through painting, photography, and public art. My practice includes gallery shows, murals, and collaborative community projects that invite people to engage with color, texture, and meaning.

I love turning spaces into living canvases and working with clients and communities to bring ideas to life, whether through studio pieces or large-scale installations. Let’s create something expressive and lasting together.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Artist & Co-Owner at Second Story Studio
October 1, 2024 - Present
Co-own and operate a contemporary art studio in Marquette. Lead mural projects, commissions, client development, and exhibition planning; collaborate with artists and community partners to produce site-specific artworks and public art installations.
Guest Artist at Zia Gallery
November 17, 2022 - March 12, 2023
Participated as a guest artist in a regional exhibition, presenting original works and engaging visitors during a multi-month showcase.
PR Chair at Marquette Artist Collective
February 1, 2018 - April 30, 2019
Led communications, press outreach, and social media campaigns to promote member shows and events, coordinating exhibits and public engagement.
Volunteer at Marquette Artist Collective
February 1, 2018 - April 30, 2019
Supported organizational operations, social media content, and exhibits planning; contributed to outreach and audience development for group shows.
Assistant on Mural at Mia Tavonatti (Power of Words Project)
June 1, 2021 - June 30, 2021
Assisted on mural installation during Zephyr Art Week, supporting prep, logistics, and on-site painting tasks.

Education

BS at Northern Michigan University
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2009

Qualifications

Narrative Portraiture
January 1, 2019 - April 29, 2026
Douglas Kirkland on Photography: A Photographer’s Eye
January 1, 2019 - April 29, 2026
Social Media Marketing (HubSpot Academy)
January 1, 2022 - January 1, 2024
Inbound (Marketing) (HubSpot Academy)
January 1, 2022 - January 1, 2024
Certificate in Museum Art Therapy Training
January 1, 2018 - April 29, 2026
Cognitive Connections Workshop
January 1, 2018 - April 29, 2026

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Professional Services