We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alejandra Bustamante a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alejandra, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

**How did you learn to do what you do?**

Before 2017, I had no idea about art. I had just graduated as a biomedical engineer and thought I had no creativity in me. However, with a bit of time, I started experimenting with calligraphy and was surprised to discover that I had an artistic side I never knew existed. My journey began with various workshops and learning from talented artists worldwide. Through constant practice and a willingness to experiment, I gradually honed my skills.

**Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process?**

To speed up my learning process, I would have believed more in my own art. You don’t need to study design or have years of experience; what truly matters is practice and the willingness to explore your potential. By consistently creating and sharing my work, I could have accelerated my growth.

**What skills do you think were most essential?**

Constant practice is the most essential skill. I always tell my students to practice at least five minutes daily, every single day. This helps develop muscle memory and maintain progress even when immediate results aren’t visible. Along with patience, creativity, and adaptability, these skills are crucial in discovering your unique style and voice.

**What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?**

The biggest obstacle was my initial lack of confidence and fear of making mistakes. It took time to overcome the self-doubt that often accompanies learning a new skill. Additionally, balancing my passion for art with other responsibilities was challenging. However, once I realized that every mistake was an opportunity to learn, I became more open to experimenting and taking risks, significantly enhancing my learning journey.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

For folks who may not have read about you before, can you please tell our readers about yourself, how you got into your industry/business/discipline/craft, etc.?

Hello! I’m Alejandra Bustamante (Ale Bu), and I’m thrilled to share my journey with you. Before discovering my passion for art, I graduated as a biomedical engineer in 2017, thinking I had no creative talents. It wasn’t until I stumbled upon calligraphy that I realized I had an artistic side waiting to be explored. What began as a simple curiosity quickly blossomed into a passion that changed my life. Over time, I developed my skills in lettering, calligraphy, and watercolors, ultimately founding AleBu Lettering to help others discover their own creative potential.

What type of products/services/creative works do you provide?

At AleBu Lettering, I offer a variety of workshops and courses, ranging from beginner to intermediate levels, in lettering, calligraphy, and watercolors. My online shop features carefully selected products such as brush pens, watercolor kits, and digital practice guides that cater to artists of all skill levels. Each product is chosen to inspire creativity and help my clients on their artistic journeys.

What problems do you solve for your clients, and what sets you apart from others?

I aim to help my clients overcome the fear of trying something new and discover the therapeutic benefits of art. Through my workshops and courses, I provide a supportive environment where they can explore their creativity without judgment. What sets AleBu Lettering apart is the emphasis on art as a form of ‘ARTErapia,’ where creating becomes a joyful and fulfilling experience. My community is built on encouragement, connection, and the belief that everyone can unlock their creative potential.

What are you most proud of, and what are the main things you want potential clients/followers/fans to know about you/your brand/your work?

I’m most proud of the community we’ve built at AleBu Lettering—a community of dreamers and doers who support and inspire each other. I want potential clients and followers to know that AleBu Lettering is more than just a brand; it’s a place where creativity thrives, and dreams are realized. I am committed to helping others find joy in their creative pursuits and to providing high-quality resources that enhance their artistic journeys. Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill or simply want to find solace in art, AleBu Lettering is here to support and inspire you every step of the way.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to inspire and connect with others through my work. Art is a universal language that transcends barriers and brings people together. Knowing that my art can evoke emotions, spark creativity, and offer comfort to someone is incredibly fulfilling.

Additionally, the personal growth that comes from continually challenging myself creatively is deeply rewarding. Each project is an opportunity to learn, explore new techniques, and push the boundaries of what I thought was possible. Seeing my progress over time and knowing that I’ve helped others unlock their own creative potential brings me immense joy.

Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect is the impact I can make in people’s lives. Whether it’s through teaching, creating art, or sharing my journey, I’m grateful for the chance to make a difference and contribute to a community that values creativity and self-expression.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn was the limiting belief that you cannot make a living from art. Growing up, I often heard that pursuing a career in the arts was impractical and that it was difficult to sustain a livelihood as an artist. This mindset initially held me back from fully embracing my creative passion and pursuing it as a profession.

The turning point came when I realized that success in the arts isn’t just about talent; it’s about combining creativity with business strategy, planning, and discipline. I began studying how to build a sustainable creative business, and I discovered that it’s entirely possible to thrive as an artist if you approach it with the right mindset and skills.

By developing a strong business acumen and being intentional about my goals, I’ve been able to create a thriving career in art. This journey taught me that art and business are not mutually exclusive. Instead, they can complement each other beautifully, allowing you to turn your passion into a viable and rewarding career.

Unlearning this limiting belief was liberating and empowering, and it has allowed me to inspire others to pursue their creative dreams with confidence and purpose.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.alebuletteringshop.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alebulettering/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alebulettering/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@alebulettering