Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Crystal Garcia. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Crystal, thanks for joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
I’ve always been a creative person. Ever since I was little, I loved to draw. My brother and I even drew on the walls! When I was in 8th grade, I remember there was an essay contest where we had to write about what we wanted to be when we grew up. I wrote that I wanted to be an artist. I actually won the contest! When I got to high school, I was in the National Art Honor Society and president of the art club. Art has always been an important part of my life.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am a visual artist born and raised in Hialeah, FL. I mostly use watercolor and acrylic paint. My paintings are often very colorful and much of my artwork is inspired by South Florida and my Cuban roots. One of my proudest moments was being part of an art exhibition organized by GoneMIA. They are a grassroots organization that strives to bring environmental awareness and positive change to Miami through the power of art.
This project was near and dear to my heart because the environment is something I care a lot about and the organization is also based in my hometown of Hialeah. This group exhibition contained works by Hialeah artists and it was all about hometown pride and bringing awareness to environmental protection. I painted several scenes around Hialeah and imagined them flooded due to sea level rise including Hialeah City Hall and the Hialeah entrance on Okeechobee Road.
Chris Medina, the founder of GoneMIA, also commissioned me to paint several pieces for the exhibition: the homes of the Hialeah commissioners and the Mayor of Hialeah’s home. The opening reception was on Earth Day and was well attended. The following month Chris and I attended the Hialeah Council meeting and presented the artworks to the commissioners and the mayor. Chris made a powerful speech in hopes that this would encourage some environmental action from our elected officials.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My goal is to live my best life by being true to myself. I want to live a creative life and spread joy through my art. I love to learn so another goal of mine is to learn as much as I can about other artists, mediums, and art making techniques.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
There are a lot of opportunities for young artists that I never knew about when I was a teen. There are magnet schools throughout Miami that specialize in visual arts. These programs provide students with opportunities to exhibit their art and network with other creative professionals. There are also several contests and scholarship opportunities such as YoungArts.
Contact Info: