Celebrating 4 YEARS in business as an Artist!
Last year at this time, I worried whether my business would survive. But today, I’m now on the other side celebrating 4 years in business as a full-time artist! As I sit here reflecting over tea, I am filled with so much gratitude. This journey has been one of the hardest but also one of the best experiences of my life. It is an honor to continue writing and sharing my thoughts with you about this beautiful journey.
Four years ago, I quit my job as a manager for a jewelry shop in Austin. I had been with that company for 5 years and decided it was time to make my own dreams come true. I remember the ride home from my last day of work so vividly - the wind blew through my hair as George Michael’s “Freedom” blasted on the radio. I finally felt free.
Over the years, there have been many exciting moments to celebrate. Here are some of the highlights:
Meeting Rosario Dawson - she knew exactly who I was and told me she loved my work.
Telemundo - My first interview for TV was in Spanish. It was a challenge but I did well and felt great!
Good Morning America - Featured for an entire segment - this was a true highlight of my artistic career
Legal Zoom - Have you seen me on a TV commercial while watching your shows? Yes, that’s me!
There have been many interesting evolutions of my work:
Empowering Women’s Series: a series of 5 beaded portraits of women who I admire including Celia Cruz, Selena Quintanilla, Frida Kahlo, Josephine Baker and Amy Winehouse.
Hilo Y Aguja - Reconnecting with my ancestors, family and my immigration experience through sewing and quilting techniques. Here, I created my first self-portrait which is now on display at Austin City Hall.
Color Series - an exploration of color and it’s effects on the human emotional system.
Hijas Del Mar - After overcoming my fear of swimming, I created a series of sculptures depicting sunbathing women at the bottom of the sea.
There have been many lessons learned over the past 4 years as well:
Trust Yourself Always - I do not come from a family of artists or entrepreneurs. I had to learn everything on my own. Because of that, I often doubt my own expertise. This is still a lesson that I am learning.
Follow Your Curiosity - Some of my best and most successful projects and opportunities were because I gave something random a chance.
Establish A Strong Morning Routine - This has taken me years to refine but I’m finally at a place where I love my morning routine. It involves meditation, movement, journaling, and visualization. It is the most loving thing I can do for myself every day. Doing the routine takes time but it has surprisingly increased my productivity and happiness levels at work.
And last but not least, I am so grateful to all of my friends, family, community and supporters. Without your love and support, I would not be here. Thank you so much for helping me to achieve this dream. I am eternally grateful!