Dayna Kliachik is the artist and owner of Moss Boss YYC, a Calgary-based studio that transforms blank walls into living works of art using lush, custom moss installations. The idea took root over five years ago during a hike near her family’s cabin in Flin Flon, Manitoba, where the textures of lichen and moss covering the Canadian Shield sparked a conversation that would change her life.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Moss Boss YYC designs and creates lush, custom moss walls, décor, and wall art for commercial and residential spaces in Calgary, across Canada, and beyond. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted to bring the calming beauty, texture, and warmth of nature indoors.
I transform blank walls, offices, homes, reception areas, and feature spaces into memorable green statements. From bold branded installations to one-of-a-kind botanical artwork, Moss Boss YYC creates low-maintenance, long-lasting designs that add depth, natural style, and a meaningful connection to the outdoors.
What made you want to do this work? What problem did you want to solve with the business?
I started Moss Boss about five and a half years ago during a hike near my family’s cabin in beautiful Flin Flon, Manitoba. A friend and I were exploring the Canadian Shield and admiring the lichen, moss, and textures covering the landscape. We began talking about how incredible it would be to create art inspired by nature, and that conversation sparked an idea that changed my life.
I have always believed nature is the most beautiful form of art. The colours, textures, and patterns found outdoors continually inspire me, especially forests, with their towering trees, soft moss underfoot, and peaceful energy. That same evening, after our hike, I created my first moss piece, and I have been creating ever since.
Moss Boss YYC grew from a desire to help people bring that feeling indoors. Many people love the look and calming effect of greenery but do not have the time, light, or maintenance routine required for living plants. My work offers a lasting, low-maintenance way to create spaces that feel calm, vibrant, and connected to nature.
Who are your clientele/demographics? How does your business make money? How does it work?
My clients are nature lovers, people who appreciate plants, gemstones, branches, organic textures, and the beauty of the natural world. They include homeowners, interior designers, businesses, offices, retail spaces, hospitality spaces, and organizations looking to create a distinctive feature wall or meaningful piece of art.
Moss Boss YYC earns revenue through the sale of framed moss art, custom moss walls, branded installations, and custom décor for both residential and commercial spaces. Clients can choose from ready-made pieces or work with me to create a custom design based on their space, style, size requirements, and vision.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
Moss artists can be found in many major cities, but Moss Boss YYC is proudly based in Calgary. I work with clients throughout Calgary and Western Canada, and I can also ship or coordinate projects nationally and internationally.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
A great question is: “Can you show me examples of custom work similar to my space, and explain what materials you use and how the piece will be installed?”
The answer should be clear and detailed. A professional moss artist should be able to share examples of past work, explain the design process, discuss materials and preservation, outline installation requirements, and help the client understand how the finished piece will look and function in their space. Custom moss art is an investment, so clients should feel confident that the artist understands both the creative vision and the practical needs of the project.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is creating the art and seeing how it transforms a space. I also love the variety that comes with being an entrepreneur. One day I may be meeting new clients and working on marketing, and the next I am in the studio designing and creating something entirely new. It is a journey that continually challenges and inspires me.
The most challenging part is balancing the creative side of the business with the behind-the-scenes responsibilities of running it. There is always something to manage, from scheduling and sourcing materials to administration and client communication, but it is all part of building something meaningful.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
“I make moss art, so you could say my business is really growing, just without the watering schedule.”
Where can we follow you?
Website | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
I would love to pay it forward to Brenda Banda Johnson. I admire the passion and creativity she brings to her work, and I am always proud to support fellow local entrepreneurs.
