Meet The Artist
Shayla Mona'e Russell is a multidisciplinary artist from The Bronx, New York, whose practice spans painting, illustration, murals, and immersive visual experiences. Rooted in imagination, cultural identity, and the nuances of everyday life, her work explores the intersection of memory, community, and storytelling through vibrant color and expressive composition.
Drawing inspiration from both personal experiences and collective narratives, Shayla creates work that transforms ordinary moments into meaningful visual conversations. Her practice balances playfulness with intention, inviting viewers to rediscover curiosity while reflecting on the people, places, and experiences that shape our perspectives. Whether developing a painting, collaborating on a public mural, or crafting a creative experience, she approaches each project as an opportunity to foster connection, celebrate shared humanity, and create work that is both accessible and transformative.
When I met Shayla last summer, I fell in LOVE with one of her paintings and my man bought it for me for our anniversary. Your work will always be so so special to me.
Rahkala, NY
Happy to continuously support you and hang your amazing art in my home!
MaKaylah, FL
I attended a showcase back in February, and her work was amazing. I loved it ever since. #dopeartist
Claudia, NY
Every now and then I marvel at Shayla's artwork. My girl is just gifted.
Joan "Lyric" Leslie, GA
When I say I am more than pleased with Shayla's work! When she opens commissions again ya'll better contact her ASAP! I just really love this more than words could explain.
Taylor, NC
FULL BIO
Originally from The Bronx, New York, Shayla has always sought to combine her imagination with her life observances in order to create taught provoking imagery. With a degree in Marketing & Advertising from Johnson C. Smith University (Charlotte, NC) and a passion for aesthetics and color - Shayla now operates as a freelance artist, specializing in custom paintings, illustrations, branding & event coordinating.
Since 2017, her work has appeared in multiple gallery shows across New York City. On October 5th, 2019, Shayla took a leap of faith and presented her first solo art show 'Excursions' to the public - where she challenged the audience to step away from their mundane routines and tap into their childlike imaginations.
In 2020, Shayla became a member of The ALPHA Arts Alliance, a Brooklyn based minority arts collective with a focus in supporting children's programs and sustainable farming in urban communities. The following year, she was selected to display her piece "Professional" in the 3rd Annual Future is Female Art Show hosted by SK.Artspace. The show was featured and recognized in ESSENCE Magazine shortly after its opening and highlighted women who used art as a form of activism.
Within that same year, Shayla and her team of photographers, videographers, designers, musicians, models, and those of the like - developed HYYER Magazine, a local publication which highlighted untapped artistic talent in New York City. Shayla acted as HYYER's Editor-in-Cheif and lead graphic designer. Through HYYER, she has been able to combine her love of writing, the arts, and her desire to connect and inspire fellow artists - giving them a platform to promote themselves during the troublesome global pandemic.
In the summer of 2023, Shayla was hired by The NYC Mural Arts Project to complete an installation beside Montifere Hospital in her hometown, The Bronx, NY. This project was a full circle moment for her because it was an opportunity to contribute to the very street art that sparked her creative journey. The mural, led by New Orleans Native Paul Deo, was developed and installed with the help of community members residing in an LGBTQ+ housing sanctuary.
Shayla currently resides in the DMV area and is excited to explore what opportunities lie ahead in Chocolate City!
Email: Theshaymonae@gmail.com
