We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Catalina Williams a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Catalina , appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
My passion for art ignited when I was pretty young. I knew that I wanted to pursue a creative path the moment I first saw a painting hanging in a museum. I was no more than seven years old, but I was moved by this beautiful abstract painting. It was only made out of black lines and triangles, but there was something so emotional about it. Later that day, when we returned home, I tried to imitate it using my crayons, but I couldn’t. I was drawing the same shapes, but something was missing. Even though I felt frustrated, It also felt like I was pursuing a mystery. That there was something else hidden behind the lines and shapes. I could try to imitate what was on the canvas, but I couldn’t communicate what was beyond it. I knew then that I could chase that mystery for the rest of my life. And as I grew, I would tell anyone that I was going to be an Artist. It took me a few years to make it a reality but I don’t see myself doing anything else. I’ve always painted or drawn. Through happy and sad times. When inspired or not.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
I’m a Chilean artist and illustrator based in the US. I ended up going to architecture school in my twenties, but I always spent every little free time I had painting and drawing. I did as many art exhibits as I could and stayed closely connected to the art community and the galleries in my city until I finally committed to being an artist full-time. I moved to the US in 2015, and although it was hard to navigate at the beginning with the language, the culture, and the galleries, I always kept trying. And just when I thought it was not going to happen for me, I gave social media a chance. Suddenly, it was like having my own gallery to the world. Companies were writing to me to work on their illustration projects or to have my artwork on their products. Now, it’s not rare that I work simultaneously on several editorial projects in different parts of the world, while managing my online store. And in 2022, I was able to illustrate my first children’s book.
Illustration is about helping to simplify complex ideas with images. My style is a reflection of my own personality, and it should be different and unique. I want for the clients to know that I can express their ideas through my art. I like the flexibility of mediums like woodcuts, digital prints and acrylic paintings. Regardless of the medium I use, what unites it all is a search for meaning in images. Images have a language of their own. They enrich the meaning in ways that words never can.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
The best thing people can do to support artists is to buy at least one piece of original art that speaks to you. Start with something that defines your style or personality. After all, It shouldn’t be too complicated to enjoy art. Think of what colors make you feel relaxed or energized. Think of images that bring you memories. Discover the joy that it is to live with a piece of original art.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
What I enjoy the most is getting to see everyday things in a new way. Above all, art and illustration is a way of discovery that requires spending time observing the world around you. Having the opportunity to experience that is very special to me. It’s like the world passes through you.
Contact Info:
- Website: catalina-williams.com
- Instagram: @color_fuel
- Twitter: @Catafwilliams
Image Credits
CATALINA WILLIAMS