Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ariel Corpuz. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ariel, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?
Working as a freelance artist can sometimes be incredibly stressful, exhausting, and terrifying. That being said, I know there’s no other job I’d rather have. I sometimes envy the security and routine of those I know with “normal” jobs, but I could do without the monotony and lack of freedom they have. I’m not sure if it’s because of my ADHD diagnosis, but I really cherish my ability to work on a wide range of creative projects in my own time. I’m almost never bored with the constant opportunities to learn something new and grow as an artist. I also have the freedom to create my own schedule, giving me the time to remain physically active and care for my grandmother. It’s not always easy maintaining a work/life balance, but I consider myself incredibly lucky to have the career I have.
Ariel, 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?
Like many other creatives, making art has been a constant in my life. I grew up constantly drawing and sought out leadership positions in as many art-related ventures as I could through high school. Pursing art as a career felt natural as I had a passion for it, and I was told I had some talent. I often like to joke that it’s the only thing I’m good at, so I really had no choice. I knew the financial risks and stigma associated with going into a creative field, but I felt that I wouldn’t be able to grow as much in other “safe” career options. So I started the process of becoming a professional artist. I had done a few paid jobs with art starting in high school, but I really only started depending on artwork in 2020. I quit my miserable job at a carwash to begin my career. I started out with pet portraits, which remains one of my favorite types of projects to this day. I continued doing that along with various family portraits and graphic design jobs along the way. Once I graduated, I began to teach. I’ve taught at a few different studios, which I feel really helped increase my skill and confidence.
About a year or two ago I saw a TikTok of an artist painting the first dance of a wedding live. I was astounded by the confidence and skill that would be required to pull off such a task. Even though the concept terrified me, I felt determined to try it out. I only worked three weddings my first year, and learned many things the hard way. Even so, I realized I had a passion for capturing the happiest moment of people’s lives. Live Painting in front of hundreds of people and only having an evening to complete a painting can be exhausting, but nothing compares to the joy of giving a couple their own artwork immortalizing such a special moment. I pride myself in being able to finish the artwork by the end of a reception. It is very special for the couple and the guests to watch a blank canvas turn into a complete artwork, giving a unique ending to the perfect day. I’ve worked with many beautiful couples so far, and I’m looking forward to all of the love I’ll get to witness in the future.
In the future, I plan to offer hand-painted guest portraits for events in addition to my live wedding paintings. I’ve only completed a few events so far, but I very much enjoy giving guests such a unique way to remember an event. I’m also continuing to offer custom pet portraits and family portraits, In my free time I’ve also been creating hand-painted accessories as well as prints to sell at art markets, although I’m considering opening an online shop should there be interest.
For those who follow me, you’ll know my work is constantly evolving. I love to try new things and meet new people, so I’d like to encourage any readers to reach out to me for any of your art needs or questions.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Starting out as an artist, I wish I had realized how valuable other creatives are for their insight. It may have been the social anxiety I had to fight against while I was younger, but I found myself intimidated by my creative peers who were successful. For that reason I avoided talking about the industry at times and foolishly thought they wouldn’t have advice about my specific situation. In reality, those who are successful in any creative or entrepreneurial field will have a wide range of experiences and knowledge. Over the years I’ve learned so much just from listening to the advice and stories of those in real life and online.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
In the age of AI, fast fashion, and consumerism I think society would benefit from selecting goods that will support creatives. We live in a time where anything come so easy, I think that hand-made and unique products are more meaningful. Not just in a way that appreciates the care put into a product, but the quality and environmental impact a handmade product has in comparison to something cheaply produced. These types of products, even though they may cost more, can provide the consumer with something that will last longer and possibly be more beautiful. This can be applied to clothing, home goods, décor, toys, and even food. Buying handmade, and buying local if possible will support creatives and the community as a whole. I know that it may not be economically feasible for everyone, but even small changes as a consumer can benefit everyone involved.
Contact Info:
- Website: arielcorpuzart.com
- Instagram: @arielcorpuzart
- Facebook: Ariel Corpuz Art and Illustration
- Other: TikTok: @arieltheterrible