Mia Artemis

What do you do in your day-to-day life?
In my day-to-day life I’m an actor (currently a waiter to supplement the sporadic ‘creative’ income). However on my days off I’m a gym-goer, reader and writer!

Why do you do it?
I’ve loved playing make-believe ever since I was little. As I grew older, that passion for the imaginative turned into a passion for making people think and understand the world around us through art. One of my favourite projects that I’ve worked on, ‘The Longest Weekend’ – which is screening at Mardi Gras Film Festival this year (2023) – is a prime example of telling a story that needs to be heard. Working with a mostly female, queer team made the entire process very special, and incredibly sacred. To work closely together with people that you love to tell a story that every single one of us identifies with, is one of the best feelings in the world.

What do you love about the city you live in right now?
Right now I’m living in Tāmaki Makarau (Auckland), Aotearoa. I love the slower pace, the people, and the general feeling of serenity I’ve embraced while living here. The rolling hills of the Kiwi landscape just touch me in a different way to Australia.

What's the best thing about being a part of the LGBTQIA+ community?
The love! All of the goddamn love. Growing up in Newtown, I was constantly surrounded by it. Once I figured out who I was, I always knew that my queer community would accept me for all that I am, unapologetically so.

In your opinion, what is the most misunderstood thing about the community?
That we all love musical theatre. I would rather eat shards of glass than watch ‘Wicked’.

Do you have an LGBTQIA+ icon/spokesperson that you look up to and if so, what do you love about them?
Joan Jett!!! Although she didn’t officially come out as gay until much later in her career, she spoke to young lesbians through her music, style and I-don’t-give-a-f... attitude. She completely took over the male-dominated arena that is glam rock. The very definition of a bad bitch.

How do you define happiness?
Happiness for me isn’t pure ecstasy or elation – it’s those moments where I feel completely at peace with who I am, what I’m doing and my place in the universe. The feeling of going to sleep with nothing weighing on my mind.

Are you happy with your work/life balance?
As of right now, I am! I’ve got a nice little routine on my days off and the cafe I work at is a lot of fun (I’m lucky enough to work with my friends). Pretty keen to start another acting gig soon though, I’m hungry for storytelling!

If you could travel back in time for a day, where would you go?
Soho, London in 1969. Mod culture, go-go boots and The Zombies. The parties would’ve been like nothing else.

What is the best lesson you've ever learned?
Art is the precursor to any revolution. And always leave a door open or your dog will sh.t on the carpet.

What is your spirit animal?
A Brazilian porcupine.