We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cesar Pita. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Cesar below.

Cesar, appreciate you joining us today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

I often think about what it would be like to have a standard job, especially when finances are uncertain and bills are due. I’ve experienced both managing well and not knowing if I could cover the next payment. When delivering artwork to offices, I sometimes picture myself working in those spaces. But then I’m reminded of the time constraints a regular job would have and make it harder to carve out time for my art. Early on, after graduating, I struggled with this balance. I felt secure in my job, but also anxious and frustrated. My mood was somber, and I became irritable. Over time, I realized that my creative process is essential for my mental well-being. Without it, I lose my sense of expression and challenge. Art is what drives me to get out of bed and engage with the world. Now that I’ve had a bit of time to stabilize my boat, I’m able to see the importance of continuing to full heartedly create artwork. I’m confident in saying I’m far happier as an artist.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I got in to my practice by taking a clay course at the University of Memphis. I didn’t grow up expecting to be a ceramic artist but somehow it all lined up. I always loved to draw as a kid and was randomly loped in to an advanced art class when the teacher was desperate for it to be filled so it wouldn’t get cut. I’d say moments like this are what define my life trajectory. I’m just doing my thing and making sure I’m enjoying it while always leaving the door open for anything that pops up.

I continue to create what makes me happy and not concern myself too much if it will sell or please a group of people. I feel secure in my work and continue to aim for improvement after every piece.

I create sculptures and vessels out of clay that all center around exploring my Mexican roots. I aim to advocate for my community and provide more imagery that show that we belong.

I’ve worked with interior designers to create site specific pieces, custom pieces for auctions, and personal projects for people’s homes. I enjoy the collaborative aspect of these experiences and the creative challenges that comes with them. I also currently teach community education classes at Buchanan Arts in North Nashville. I’ve enjoyed being able to see my students grow and expand on their knowledge of clay. They definitely make it a great experience.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I wanted to establish myself as a well rounded practicing artist that is connected with artist near and far. I’d like to be able to have a space where I’m able to share these experiences and connections with those looking to jump in to the clay world.

I also look forward to bringing clay to those who may not be able to experience clay early in their childhood. Either due to finances, misconceptions about clay or the art practice, or simply being unaware. I didn’t get to experience clay until I was in college, where everyone around me has had their hands in clay since being a child. My family was solely focused on survival growing up so there wasn’t much room for anything else at the time. I’d like to provide an opportunity for those in a similar position and see someone that looks like them working in clay.

I also dream of using clay as a means of nurturing connections or communication between a child and their parent. I believe it can be a healing process that could have long lasting effects on families.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

I believe there might be a misconception about the practice of being an artist. Most of us aren’t doing this and dwindling away our time. We don’t have a financial background that allows us to pursue this as a loose hobby.

There’s a lot of work involved from creating, documenting, social media, grants, show applications, networking, showing up for other artist, and then the mass amounts of work involved with running your own business on top of that.

I’m currently getting ready for a solo show in November and not scheduling work for myself for a few weeks. When I told my friend about me being busy, they seemed to believe I was taking a vacation and not “doing anything.” In reality, these past months have been some of the most intense I’ve ever experienced. It’s a welcomed challenge for sure.

I don’t say this to bash my friend or anyone that has the same frame of thinking. I believe it to be important for there to be an understanding across the board on what people are passionate about and the critical role it can play in our communities.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Cesarpita.com
• Instagram: Saysorrywithoutthe_ys