Today we’d like to introduce you to Maia Sylba
Hi Maia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Everything began in a mysterious and unexpected way. An older Italian painter, whom I had never met, noticed me on social media. He kindly asked if I would allow him to create artistic groups using my name, which he found both inspiring and meaningful—short yet profound. He told me that he saw something special in me, something artistic. As a young and enthusiastic individual, I agreed, feeling honored by his words. He created the groups, made me an admin, and that’s how I first connected with the artistic community.
Years later, my brother shared the same sentiment with me, saying, “I see art in you.” Those words made me reflect deeply. As a child, I had always been talented—whether it was painting, sculpting, dancing, singing, or even writing. Yet, the life of an artist seemed solitary to me. I chose different, more challenging paths, paths that were surrounded by people, as I thought back then. However, life led me back to art, and I decided to embrace the connections I had made with artists like Jeff Roland, Gines Serran, Eric Armusik, Viktorie Chaloupkova, Nadia Lazizi, and many others. I began my journey by launching an online art magazine. The first edition was published in September 2010, and from that moment, my exploration of the mysteries of art began—and continues to this day.
For almost 15 years, I have had the honor of representing artists—some of them household names, respected and well-known in the art world. Many of them have become close friends, supporters, and even fans. I remain in touch with all of them, and what I do is far from cold professionalism. It is emotional, friendly, and driven by love and passion. Our readers feel that connection. They follow the magazine because they sense that I am here out of love for the art, not for profit.
My goal is simple: to represent as many artists as I can throughout my life, to share the beauty of art with the world, and to unite people across cultures, backgrounds, and differences. I want to help foster mutual respect, deeper understanding, and a shared vision of creating something beautiful, meaningful, and profound. This is the essence of Musetouch.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Every journey, every endeavor, has its light and shadow. The most rewarding aspect of mine is the ability to help others—artists, sensitive and open souls—find recognition and visibility. Seeing their artwork shine, reading their words of gratitude and joy, knowing that they are content with the representation of their work in my magazine, brings me a sense of fulfillment unlike any other. It is in these moments, when I feel their joy, that I am filled with a positive energy that strengthens me, makes me more confident, bolder, and, above all, more at peace with myself and my life. I feel as though I am on a mission—a mission that may sound mysterious, even childlike, but it is one that I wholeheartedly embrace.
On the other hand, the darker side lies in the criticism from those who fail to understand my vision. These are the people who don’t seek to know me or what I am trying to create, people who only wish to use my name, my brand, and all I have achieved for their own selfish goals—sometimes even resorting to dishonesty, stealing copyrights, or engaging in other harmful behaviors. My friends call them “haters.”
When I first began, I was fragile, vulnerable, and every negative word, every unwarranted attack, would leave me in tears, cause stress, and make me question my purpose, my direction, and whether I should continue at all. But with time, I learned to view these criticisms not as obstacles, but as opportunities for growth. I learned to work harder, to improve both myself and the magazine, to push through the adversity, and to fight for what I believe in. I understood that these challenges, though painful, were stepping stones on the path to resilience.
I have become stronger, wiser, more weathered, as they say. Now, whether the words are good or bad, whether the energies are positive or negative, they only serve to reinforce my conviction and remind me that I am on the right path. I will not give up.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an editor, yes, but in truth, I am so much more. I am the creative force behind Musetouch Visual Arts Magazine, shaping and bringing it to life. My work transcends the editorial. It is about connecting with artists, guiding them through their creative journeys, helping them recognize their finest works and personal images, crafting interviews that are tailored to them, and leading them toward the light of recognition. In this way, I help them become visible—seen, even celebrated. Many artists, once unknown, have gained recognition through my magazine and our collaboration.
I am the one who invents the titles for each edition, who chooses the cover image, and who ensures that every detail comes together to create the grand reality of each massive issue. Musetouch is no small feat—it is a monumental work, often spanning hundreds of pages. After each publication, I find myself in need of a few days’ rest, for the process is physically and mentally exhausting. Yet, despite the toll it takes, I find immense joy in my work. It is challenging, yes, but it fills me with happiness, and I would not trade it for anything.
I am immensely proud of Musetouch—of every artist I have had the honor of representing, of every life I have touched. As I’ve mentioned before, my purpose is to help these artists thrive, to support them not only in their careers but often in their lives. Art, after all, is often both an escape from reality and a way of confronting it—presented in the most beautiful, creative form possible. Through art, we become creators of our own reality.
I am also incredibly proud of the readers of Musetouch. They are not just readers; they are individuals who truly understand the value of the magazine, who recognize my mission, my work, my passion. They are my supporters, my friends, and I consider them as such in the deepest, most sincere way.
What sets Musetouch apart from other magazines is simple: I do this out of love and passion, for my own personal fulfillment and happiness—not for profit. This is the essence of what makes Musetouch unique. Unlike other publications, which may rely on large teams of people in various roles, Musetouch is a creation born of just two individuals—myself and my brother, who handles the technical side of the operation. He is my shadow, my greatest support, and the silent force behind this entire project. While other magazines boast entire teams, Musetouch is driven by the dedication of just the two of us.
It is hard work, undoubtedly exhausting, but when love is the driving force, anything is possible.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My only advice is to work with love and unwavering dedication. Focus on your purpose, not on income or material gain, not on popularity or the number of followers you have on social media, or any of the superficial aspects of success. Instead, listen to your heart and give yourself fully to what you do. When you do so, everything else will fall into place. In time, the right people will find you—those who will respect, support, and even admire your work. When love is the foundation of your efforts, everything aligns as it should. As I’ve said before, with love, everything is possible.
Pricing:
- Donation
Contact Info:
- Website: https://musetouch.org/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MusetouchVisualArtsMagazine
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maiasylba/
Image Credits
Agnieszka Lorek, Michael James Talbot, NYC Dance Project, Isabelle Menin, Benjamin Shine, Luc Martineau, Soledad Fernandez.
