Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ana L Rincon. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ana L, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
As a child, I spent time alone while my mother worked, filling my days with homework, drawing, and playing with my cats. I started with simple pencil drawings, then moved on to faces and eyes, eventually discovering my love for colored pencils and pastels due to their flexibility and smooth finish.
For years I did not pursue art. Instead, I explored dance and piano, until I enrolled in art classes at Tarrant County Community College in Ft. Worth, TX. Contrary to my fears of a restrictive environment, I found supportive, imaginative instructors who made learning design, drawing, and art history enjoyable. I adapted to drawing with an easel instead of a table and enjoyed creative projects like designing a lamp, which further fueled my passion for art.
None of that went without a challenge, because I also had to complete college-level English classes, and my command of the language was limited. However, I pushed through it like I’ve done many times before because my mother taught me patience and resilience. She spoke the language perfectly and I felt I could do the same one day.
After being accepted into the Studio Art program at the University of Texas at Austin, I was continually impressed by the exceptional professors. My studies included painting, drawing, photography, woodworking, and frame making, among other studio classes. We had project guidelines, lectures on art tools and techniques, and group critiques.
While critiques were challenging for many introverts, they were invaluable in teaching us to communicate our artistic intent confidently, listen to others, and embrace diverse perspectives. These sessions helped us gain objectivity, define our vision, and incorporate constructive feedback.
Art school didn’t just teach me technical skills; it also instilled patience and discipline. How many times did we stare at our paintings in frustration, struggling to capture our vision before a looming deadline? How many times did we repaint and revise, battling with our work-in-progress because it wasn’t turning out as we’d imagined? Through it all, the guidance of instructors was crucial in helping me refine my craft. Just as learning a language connects us, mastering visual arts became a way to communicate and contribute meaningfully to society.
During those years, my work was featured locally, and I gained insights into the business side of art. While I enjoyed the vibrant life of Austin, I wasn’t hooked on wild parties. I am grateful I was able to manage a full-time student life and a part-time job, even squeezing in some community participation supporting indigenous peoples in Mexico. I also explored charming Texas towns like Fredericksburg, which was less famous then. Austin has since grown unrecognizably, but the lessons from art school remain a solid foundation for me, especially knowing that my mother went to the very same university a few decades prior.
Soon after college, I traveled to Europe and continued to create black-and-white photography using film. That was before the smartphone frenzy, and did not pursue photography as much. After creating a successful drawing class called “Drawing from Within,” I explored oil painting further and I’ve focused mostly on that.
While traveling, I noticed many places named Rincon, such as Rincon Pointe in San Francisco, Rincon Mountains in Tucson, Rincon Casino, and the Rincon Native American tribe in California. Despite my research, the reason for this widespread use remains unclear. I suspect it may be related to the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail, which extended from Mexico City to San Francisco Bay.
To honor my mother and family name, I named my business Rinconart in 2000, and my first gallery in Tubac, AZ in 2006, near one of the earliest presidios established along the De Anza Trail (aka El Camino Real).
Since then, I’ve opened another gallery and collaborated with many talented artists in California. My artwork has evolved, with a recent focus on desert landscapes and cityscapes. Although I’ve mainly used oil paint, I appreciate that I can switch to pastels whenever I choose. I chose oil paint for its versatility and enduring quality, which continues to inspire me.
Technology may advance, but it can’t replace human touch and creativity. I value human imperfections over artificial perfection. Art thrives on mistakes and detachment, reflecting life’s challenges. Despite the struggles, being an artist has very much deepened my self-understanding and been a catalyst for self-revelation.
Ana L, 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?
My name is Ana Luisa Rincon Roldan, originally from Mexico City but am a long-time resident of the US. my work is known for its vibrant, South American influences, though it’s also eclectic due to my diverse experiences. I specialize in oil painting but am also skilled in photography, drawing, murals, decorative designs, and special effects on walls. I have experience refurbishing cabinets and re-staining furniture.
I regularly participate in art fairs and events, showcasing both originals and reproductions. I accept commissions and contracts for custom paintings and have a background in managing art business operations. My work, available in various formats, can be explored on my website, www.rinconart.com.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
I had to unlearn that everyone means well. Not everyone is happy for you in good fortune, even if you’ve been a good friend. The backstory is simply the betrayals that teach us to pray and stay close to God so we sharpen our discernment and learn to share our good heart only with the right people.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My art life is driven by several intertwined goals and missions. Art is an intrinsic part of who I am, and my mission is to continue developing my craft. While achieving milestones and receiving accolades is gratifying, I focus on setting technical goals and enjoy working on art for its own sake, without obsessing about public attention or competing with others. I approach art with joy, which I believe enhances its quality. I’ve learned from incredible artists and continue to grow in the techniques and subjects I wish to explore. Art remains a constant companion in my often nomadic life.
I also aim to be a living example of the value of a serious commitment to a career in the arts. I hope to inspire young people to follow their artistic passions, knowing there is support for them if they take the initiative. While academics are important, I advocate for group studios and collaborative activities to foster connections and discipline among artists.
Finally, I honor my mother through my business, deeply appreciative of her encouragement despite financial challenges. I’m also grateful for the opportunities I’ve found in the USA, which have enabled me to contribute to the community and achieve goals that might have been unattainable elsewhere.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rinconart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rinconartrocks/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rinconart/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/analuisarincon/
