Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Antoniajosé Villa. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Antoniajosé , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
For me the desire to be a working artist has been an aspiration since I was very young, it wouldn’t be till my mid twenties that I made that into a reality. Always being naturally gifted with artistic abilities I wanted to really make use of those talents on a daily basis and nails were a perfect vehicle that lets me practice my art every day.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My origin story is one of Mardi Gras. I had received a text message on Mardi Gras day, from my then employer that the store I managed was shutting down and that I would no longer have a job. Of course I proceeded in enjoying my day and told myself that was a future me problem. Future me turned present and I decided that I really wanted to fulfill my life long dream of becoming a working artist. My first thought was to become a tattoo artist, but I felt overwhelmed about the permanency of it all. As I was scrolling on Instagram I came across a nail post, and that it where it began. I enrolled in nail school, received my license and really honed in on the nail art, that is what would set me apart.
My clients come to me for the experience of a fine artist at work. Tiny little works of art that they can wear, I like to think of nails as an accessory. How they will look from afar and up close, how wearable are they with the day to day lives my clients live. I really have a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when both my clients and I love their nails.
I would love to list the many publications, media, and art shows I’ve been featured in as some of my most proud moments but I still feel like I have so much left to do and accomplish before I really feel truly proud of myself. I fear that as an artist this maybe a perpetual feeling, but I hope for my sake not. If im being honest I’m really am just proud to be an artist who isn’t struggling.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
I think funding is one key ingredient in creating a thriving ecosystem in today’s society for artists. By providing more funding and educational opportunities for artists to pursue their passions and support their livelihoods. Education on legal protections for creatives, such as copyrights, trademarks, and intellectual property rights would also help foster healthy artistic collaborations within the society.
Can you share your view on NFTs? (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)
NFTs are still relatively new and evolving, on one end it’s a way to support and monetize digital art which is exciting. Then there’s the concerns of the environmental impact that these energy intensive blockchains can have on society. For me, it’ll be interesting to see how NFTs will impact the art world and society, I’ll be witnessing that from a backseat perspective though.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
@kimberly ha for the long tassel pic and the poker pic