Marisa Muliadi-Kleiber

Instagram: @nabucoart.marisa
Web: www.brush.bio/mmkleiber

Finding Joy in Color: My Artistic Journey from Engineering to Painting

Art has always been a part of my life. Growing up in a family where creativity was woven into the fabric of our daily lives, it was impossible not to be influenced by the vibrant colors and intricate designs that surrounded me. My art is inspired by the tropical colors and lively flora and fauna of Java, Indonesia, where my roots lie. Over the years, I’ve found that these bright, playful hues are not just beautiful—they carry a deeper meaning. They bring joy, simplicity, and a sense of happiness to anyone who takes a moment to connect with them.

A Family Legacy of Art

Art runs through my family’s veins, and it was from my father that I first learned to truly appreciate its beauty. On my father's side, architecture and art were always intertwined. Every generation had a painter, and I happened to be the one who gravitated toward it most. From a young age, my father would take me to local galleries and antique stores, teaching me how to curate art and explaining its value. I became fascinated by how art could communicate emotions, tell stories, and capture the essence of a culture, especially the rich tradition of Javanese art that continues to influence my work today. It was during those early years that I discovered my love for painting—an interest that would stay with me for a lifetime.

From Civil Engineering to Full-Time Artist

Despite my deep love for art, I chose a different path early in life. I moved to California to study Civil Engineering, driven by my desire to understand the structural side of buildings. I decided not to pursue architecture, knowing that the art part would always live within me. I was curious to learn how architects and engineers work together—and sometimes clash—in their vision of how a building should come to life. For 31 years, I worked as a civil engineer while continuing to paint as a hobby. The logic of engineering and the creativity of painting coexisted in my life, each providing a balance and sense of fulfillment.

It wasn’t until 2.5 years ago, when I retired, that I decided to embrace my true passion and dedicate myself fully to painting. Since then, I’ve immersed myself in the world of color, art, and storytelling, using my paintings as a way to explore and express my life experiences. Every brushstroke feels like an opportunity to communicate something deeper, something personal, and most of all, something joyful.

The Language of Color

One of the things I’ve always loved about art is its ability to connect people. As I paint, I get lost in the colors and the stories they tell. For me, color is not just something I see—it’s something I feel. My paintings are a fusion of bright, tropical colors that reflect the beauty of nature and Javanese culture. They carry a sense of joy and warmth, inviting the viewer to pause and experience the playfulness and simplicity that I find so satisfying. Through these colors, I aim to create a space where people can reflect on their own lives, see their own stories, and, hopefully, find a connection to something beautiful.

Connecting Through Art

Art, to me, is about connection. I want my paintings to be more than just visual objects; I want them to be a bridge between people. I want others to experience the same joy and happiness that I feel when I create. Through my art, I hope to bring people together—whether it’s a person finding their own joy through my work or connecting with someone else through shared emotions and experiences.

“See Color and get Connected” is my motto. It’s a simple idea, but one that I believe holdsincredible power. Whether through the intricate patterns and rich tones of Javanese-inspired flora and fauna or the joyful simplicity of a bold color palette, my paintings aim to inspire happiness and connection. In a world where we’re all constantly moving, I hope my art gives others a chance to pause, reflect, and connect with something that resonates on a deeper level.

Looking Ahead

Now that I’ve embraced my full-time painting career, I’m more excited than ever to share my work with the world. Through my paintings, I want to continue spreading joy, fostering connection, and creating a space where people can come together through the power of color. Whether in a gallery, in a home, or online, I hope my art brings a little more happiness to those who encounter it, and that the connections formed through it are lasting and meaningful.

In the end, art is about sharing and experiencing joy—and I’m grateful to be able to do that through my work every day.