We recently connected with Cathy Longueira and have shared our conversation below.
Cathy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.
I have always been a creative person from an early age but did not have the opportunity to learn formally until I was in middle school. My art teacher, Marilyn Traeger was really instrumental in providing a foundation for me to learn my craft, refine my abilities, and gain confidence. I was able to attend Design and Architecture Sr High where I was able to fully immerse myself in the visual arts. Learning from and alongside other highly talented motivated peers was ultimately what steered me toward a creative profession
Cathy, 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?
Having been born and raised in Miami, I always felt a distinct sense of pride and love for our city and it’s communities. During the pandemic I was able to spend a lot of time brainstorming and designing. I was finally able to explore working with wood, something that always intrigued me.
The Original 305 Board was born from a desire to make a home decor that showed our love for Miami and wanting flexibility to decorate seasonally without the clutter. This is main reason for the interchangeable center which accommodates a variety of Miami themed wooden cutouts. It was important to us that each board could reflect the personalities and style of the people who live at the home where it’s displayed. While each piece is consistent in its design, it is also like an individual work of art. Each board and cutout is designed, cut, and hand paint by me. Eventually, we expanded to add stickers, apparel, and other home items. We also partner with other local designers to feature items that compliment my brand such as Cafe Qban Cafecito sets.
In building this brand, fostering a sense of community has been fundamental. We love bringing people together and putting a smile on their face. This is why a great effort is made to pop up and be actively engaged within our city as much as possible. This has enabled us to meet incredible people who love the 305 as much as we do and create beautiful friendships. Putting faces to the names we see on IG or an order has been such a beautifully inspiring experience!
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
The most effective ways to support artists/creatives and the creative ecosystem are to support public art education programs in schools and to shop local whenever possible. All children should have arts as an integral part of their education.
What do you find most rewarding about being creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is being able to meet so many incredible people and use it as a vehicle to make a positive impact in our community. Through my art and 305 vibe I’ve been able to support local charities, mentor other creatives, build up and support a community that loves our 305 community. It’s truly been an incredible experience!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.305vibeMiami.com
- Instagram: @305vibe_