Tanja Jade McMillan (Misery), born Tanja Jade Thompson in Maryborough, Australia, in 1982, is a renowned artist of French Polynesian Tahitian, Hakka Chinese, Australian, and New Zealand Pākehā descent. Her mother, a costume designer, and her great-grandmother, a commercial artist for the Auckland Civic Theatre, significantly influenced her early exposure to the arts. At 12, Tanja relocated to Tāmaki Makaurau-Auckland with her mother and sister, where she immersed herself in the city's vibrant art scene.
During her teenage years at Auckland Metropolitan College, Tanja befriended graffiti artists, including Elliot O'Donnell (Askew One), who bestowed upon her the moniker "Misery." This period marked the beginning of her journey into street art, where she developed distinct characters reflecting her emotions, life experiences, and dreams.
Tanja's artistic style is deeply influenced by her diverse heritage and a profound appreciation for Asia-Pacific arts and crafts. She often incorporates elements from Japanese art, personifying objects to convey the concept of inherent energy in all things. Her works are characterized by a unique blend of sweetness and melancholy, capturing delicate gestures and expressions that are both delightful and instantly recognizable.
Throughout her career, Tanja has explored various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and murals. She has exhibited her work internationally in cities such as Berlin, Taiwan, Paris, Hawaii, New York, Los Angeles, New Zealand, and Australia. Notably, she was commissioned to create two bronze sculptures, "Twist" and "Thief," which are permanently installed on Auckland's Karangahape Road.
In 2010, feeling consumed by the persona of Misery, Tanja ceremonially retired the name by auctioning her final works under that moniker. However, she later resurrected Misery, infusing it with a more playful and fantastical essence, leading to the creation of "Miseryland," a realm filled with mystical creatures and vibrant narratives.
Beyond her personal practice, Tanja has engaged in various commercial collaborations with brands like Anna Sui, Casio Baby-G, Telecom, Serato, and Piaggio. She also co-founded "Misery Guts," a children's decor brand, and co-owns "Sunset Tattoo" in Auckland with her husband, Tom McMillan, a well-known tattoo artist.