Today we’d like to introduce you to Betesha Bloise Ponciano

Hi Betesha, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.

I would say my artistic development truly started with my time at Eliosnet Escuela de Arte. Though I had previously been part of different art classes, there I got to learn and develop foundational skills in drawing, figuration, and painting. At that time, I also participated in art competitions like Arte en Cuarentena by the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo and Pinta Tu Rincón Favorito de RD by Suzuki. Through it, I also had my first experiences with the Hilvanando Ilusiones collective exhibitions, which continue to set a precedent as I exhibit in new spaces, for example, in Inner Canvas at Arte San Ramón in 2024.

After finishing high school, I was admitted to Chavón The School of Design for an AAS in Illustration. It was a formative experience, where I got to learn from wonderful professors who continue to inspire me. Likewise, I met many dear friends who prove to be a valued and supportive presence in my life. After graduating, I received news that I had been selected as a recipient of the Special Parsons Chavón Scholarship, which allowed me to continue a BFA degree at Parsons The School of Design.

To fund my room and board expenses, I worked for the better part of a year, during which I developed visual, editorial, and identity design projects for various companies like Voluntariado Banreservas, CAASD, and Nohian Collection Hotels. Thanks to this work, along with the support of my family and community, I was able to start at The New School in Fall 2024. As my studies unfold, I am grateful for the opportunities for growth that surround me in this new chapter and look forward to what the future may hold.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?

As I am still in the early stages of my career, the road has mostly been comprised of my studies. After a formative experience at Chavón the School of Design, I had the opportunity of continuing a BFA at Parsons the School of Design starting Fall of 2023 thanks to a scholarship as part of a 2+2 program. Yet though my scholarship covered the whole of my tuition, I realized that the room and board and transport expenses were far too high to meet at that time. So what then? Given the situation, I chose to defer my admission to the next year, to Fall 2024, the latest I could push it to without losing it altogether. In the meantime, I dedicated myself to work in order to save up. With the help of my friends, I also set up a crowdfunding account, uploaded content on the matter to Instagram, and created a website with more information. Thankfully, after a year full of uncertainty, with the support of family and friends I was able to start this 2024. Though the future still seems uncertain given the ongoing need for funds, I am determined to make the best with the time and resources I have.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

As a visual artist I dedicate myself to different aspects of visual design, but mainly acrylic painting, conceptual illustration and visual identity design. I would say what stands out most about my work is the use of vibrant colors with introspective concepts that are often informed by the psychological. It is a fusion of different considerations that stem from the many influences and branches of my practice, resulting in ease of adaptability and interconnected techniques and styles.

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?

I consider success to be a balance between your goals, personal values, and circumstances, using what’s available to you. For me, success would be about creating work that speaks truth to an experience, sentiment of concept, and that creates a sense of connection with the viewer. To have people see themselves reflected in it. It would involve contributing to conversations about art and culture while staying true to my creative vision.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.beteshabloiseart.com
• Instagram: @beteshabloiseart
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betesha-bloise-ponciano-a89174265
• Other: @bybetesha