MJ Okawa Art

MJ Okawa is an Arizona-based silk painter, public artist and arts educator whose vibrant work celebrates the beauty of the natural world and the joy it inspires. Using the centuries-old technique of silk painting with hand-applied metallic gutta and steam-set dyes, she creates luminous original artworks that blend the richness of stained glass with the softness and movement of watercolor.

Her paintings are inspired by landscapes, oceans, mountains, gardens, and moments of wonder, inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and reconnect with beauty. Whether creating intimate gallery pieces or developing concepts for large-scale public art, MJ believes that art has the power to strengthen communities, tell meaningful stories, and create lasting connections.

In addition to her studio practice, MJ collaborates with her partner, sculptor and fabricator Rich Roberts, on public art projects that combine painting, sculpture, architectural elements, and interactive experiences. Together they develop artwork that is both visually engaging and rooted in a strong sense of place.

MJ's work has been collected by municipalities, businesses, and private collectors throughout the United States, and she has received numerous awards for both her artwork and her contributions to arts education. She is an active member of Arizona's arts community and currently exhibits with several galleries throughout the state.

Her hope is simple: that every piece she creates leaves viewers with a sense of joy.