We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cristina Mora. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Cristina below.
Cristina, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?
I’m the happiest I’ve been, in a long time, identifying as a fine artist while working a full-time job. I studied photography at SCAD and graduated in 2019, but I think taking a photo is at the bottom of the list of what I’ve done in the creative field, and I have no shame in that. Since graduating, I’ve worked as a freelance photo and production assistant. I’ve done photo editing and sequencing for photographers, photobooks, websites, and galleries; I’ve worked on national and international campaigns for well-known companies and created social media content for local businesses and galleries in Atlanta.
The end of 2020 was the last time I contemplated what I was doing with my career. Due to COVID that year, I had gotten laid off from my full-time job, and my freelance work slowed down. Additionally, I didn’t have a proper work/life balance while working those jobs, and I was really out of touch with creating any of my artwork. During that time, I wondered where I could’ve been in all aspects of my life if I had studied mechanical engineering, which was what I would’ve gone to school for if my family hadn’t let me go to art school.
The reality is, I think anyone in the creative field needs to be able to wear multiple hats, and some jobs may seem more “regular” than others. I would not be where I am today if I didn’t have jobs unrelated to photography along the way. I’ve learned more skills and about myself with each experience.
I’m currently working what some may call a regular job as an editor and printer at a studio in Atlanta that thankfully allows me to have time to work on my art and have a better work/life balance.
Cristina, 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?
I am a fine art photographer specializing in historical photographic printing, darkroom processes, and paper-making. I earned my BFA in photography from Savannah College of Art and Design. Outside of my artwork, I am a photo and production assistant and photo editor; a few companies I’ve assisted on projects for include: Bustle, the CW, AARP, and truTV. I’ve worked with photographers and well-known companies on projects and campaigns, both nationally and internationally.
I fell in love with photography at the age of twelve but knew I wanted to make a career from it after meeting and working under one of the best creative leaders I’ve encountered, Barbara Griffin. Her passion for photography is why I have a greater appreciation for the team behind the photographer. Working on her productions and projects has helped me see how far a photograph can go beyond a screen or print.
I currently work as an editor and printer at a studio in Atlanta while working as a fine artist and continue to photo assist when I can.
What do you find most rewarding about being creative?
The most rewarding thing has been to see my growth as an artist. I didn’t know what kind of artist I wanted to be for a long time. There was a time when I wouldn’t show my artwork to anyone, and I still have a habit of not showing it enough! But I am getting better about it. I’ve been in six exhibitions this year, including my first out-of-state exhibition. And lastly, getting my process of making Cyanotype mirrors to work is rewarding in itself!
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
Buy directly from artists, go to exhibitions and openings, share resources, art, and fundraisers with people you know, ask your favorite artists if they do commissions, donate to their projects/materials if you’re able to, and show your support!
I can’t tell you how happy I get when people I haven’t seen or heard from in years will send me a message saying they love the artwork I’ve been creating. Or when I see familiar faces show up at exhibitions. Or even when my friends send me photos of artwork or exhibits they think I’d enjoy seeing. There are so many ways to support artists!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cristinamora.photo/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mora_cristina/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/cristina-mora
Image Credits
Cristina Mora