About The Artist
Photos by Karate Malt Liquor
IG: @thelegendofkaratemaltliquor
Makiah (TNK) Stephens is the visionary force behind TNK Arts, a multidisciplinary creative studio where high fashion intersects with fine art, and urban narratives are woven with ethereal elements. As a creative director and artist, Makiah specializes in editorial photography, painting, collaging, ceramics, and short film direction.
Her work delves into themes of Blackness, cultural identity, and artistic activism, utilizing diverse mediums to both celebrate and challenge perceptions of beauty, history, and representation.
Inspired by the organic forms of nature and the dynamic energy of urban landscapes, TNK Arts embodies Makiah's nuanced storytelling approach. Since establishing herself as an artist in 2014, she has embarked on projects that merge fine art, photography, and social commentary. Her creative direction includes collaborations with UNCF’s Target Scholars and the Philly Loves Fresh initiative.
As a filmmaker and Black Music City award recipient, Makiah's work spans cause-based productions to immersive visual storytelling. Her passion for honoring Black culture fuels her artistic endeavors, ensuring its depth and versatility are authentically represented.
Beyond her personal projects, TNK Arts engages in community-driven art, curating thought-provoking exhibitions and directing socially impactful creative productions. Through TNK Arts, Makiah continues to redefine visual storytelling, using her artistry to amplify voices, preserve history, and inspire future generations.
A fun, VHS-recorded behind the scenes look at TNK at work. From creative direction, to set design—she can do it all!
Captured over a year ago on VHS by collaborator, KML, this behind-the-scenes footage offers a nostalgic glimpse into a dreamlike shoot where ethereal elegance took center stage. The soft grain and warm hues of analog film amplify the otherworldly aesthetic, blending fantasy with a touch of vintage charm. From flowing fabrics to delicate movements, this shoot remains a timeless ode to beauty in motion.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sounds like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest.
