Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ana. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Ana thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

In 2022, we started a commission free art gallery out of an apartment unit in downtown Phoenix. It all began with renting the space as my work studio. This area is known as Roosevelt Row Arts District. The first friday of each month, there is a large “First Friday” street fair and our building was right in the center of the action. It became clear after seeing hundreds of people pass through the area that initial First Friday, that it had a much greater purpose. We decided to offer wall space to any artist interested in having their work displayed. The positive feedback from the artists and the community was so encouraging that Psyde Street Studio was officially born! In one year we hosted 14 art shows and worked with more than 10 amazing artists. Although we weren’t able to find a sustainable long term presence, the opportunity to participate and contribute to the Phoenix art community was life changing.

Ana, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Art has always been my passion. I always hoped I could find a way to center my life around it, and be able to be a full time artist. After working in different fields and not finding my groove,
I decided to get my degree in business and art with hopes to help make this a reality.
In the past few years I’ve been fortunate enough to be involved in projects and make invaluable connections in the art community. I have also been able to come into my individual style as a painter. I could describe my style as psychadelic Impressionism and I am all about vibrant color. I’ve been learning to use florescent paints and manipulate paint with light. I’m currently in love with creating murals. I have found that it gives me everything I looked for in an art path and has been my focus lately.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is when my work inspires others to look for and nurture the creative side of themselves. It’s such an important and healing part of being a human.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

If you consume something and it brings you happiness, show support. That way people keep creating good things. This goes for art of all kinds. It could be the baked good at a farmers market, or the music of the guitar player at the bar. It doesn’t have to be financial support either. It could be throwing them a follow or writing a google review. It could also just be telling them to keep it up! Don’t assume that because it’s what they do that they hear it all the time. Positive reinforcement of the things that you want to see more of in the world can be simple.    

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @anax_artx