We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Bonnie Gonzo a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Bonnie 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?
My projects are significant, mainly when I express my love for pop culture through painting movies and TV scenes. However, there’s something uniquely meaningful about taking on requests and commissions.
Recently, I had the opportunity to design a business card for a friend. It was a test of my skills, but I embraced the challenge. Seeing their envisioned image come to life, with its intricate details and limited colors, was incredibly rewarding. Holding the finished design in their hands and witnessing their priceless reaction made the experience truly profound
Bonnie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
In 2021, I started building my own small art business, specializing in pop culture art using a range of mediums like acrylic, digital and mixed media. From recreating iconic film and TV references like Attack on Titan, Mars Attacks!, and the Thing, I started by selling my artwork online through platforms like Etsy. Initially, I hesitated to participate in vendor events, finding excuses to avoid them. However, I realized that showcasing my art and establishing my name required stepping out of my comfort zone. I asked myself, “What’s the worst that can happen?”
Taking that leap, I started participating in vendor events, gaining new clients, and growing a small following on Instagram. Along the way, I’ve been expanding my artistic skills and techniques, exploring stippling and working with Posca markers in addition to acrylic paints. Looking back, I take pride in my progress over the past two years since I decided to pursue art full-time.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
As an artist, there are certain things about my creative journey that non-creatives may find challenging to understand—the emotional investment into creating art, each piece with love, thoughts, and experiences. The process of inspiration is also something that may be difficult to explain. Non-creatives may not understand how ideas come to us, how we build on an idea, and how inspiration can strike at unexpected moments.
The creative journey has obstacles, rejections, and creative blocks. The ability to keep going, despite setbacks is a testament to our dedication and passion. By shedding a little light on these aspects of the creative journey, we can bridge the gap between creatives and non-creatives, nurturing understanding and appreciation for the artistic process. This insight can help others appreciate the dedication and courage it takes to pursue a creative path and find inspiration in their pursuits.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
Society should acknowledge the vital role of art and creativity in cultural improvement. Creating dedicated spaces for artists and creatives to showcase their work and connect with audiences is essential. We can foster a nurturing environment by drawing inspiration from the unwavering support seen in the punk scene, where hidden talents in San Antonio and nearby areas thrive. Attending each other’s shows, booking gigs, and passionately promoting local talent provides opportunities for networking, growth, and embracing diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. Let this example inspire the broader art community, encouraging collaborative efforts and creating a supportive space for artists and creatives to flourish. 
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bonniegonzo9/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bonniegonzo9