We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Debra Montalvo a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Debra , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
My artistic journey began with dance at age three, solidifying into a career aspiration by age seven. For over 35 years, I dedicated myself to the dance industry through teaching, performing, choreographing, and judging. Upon retiring from dance, I transitioned into acting and have recently expanded my creative pursuits to include speaking and co-authoring my first book. So I guess you could say creativity is my career!
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
Communities can help the arts by providing financial support, offering affordable or non-profit spaces for creation and performance. Cities could also implement educational and artistic development programs that create opportunities for expression and exhibition, for students as well as professionals. Engaging residents through arts activities can foster a more educated, cultured and compassionate society.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
There are a few things that I wish I knew when I was establishing my career.
First, I would have been more embracing of my failures. Mistakes make for valuable lessons. It’s a crucial part of growth and creativity!
Second, networking! Building relationships and connecting with others is paramount. This can be difficult for us “artistic type,” as this experience can sometimes feel inauthentic. But by changing our mindset to view networking as an opportunity, we can forge new friendships, collaboration, and create a support group of people with shared interests and goals.
Lastly, have realistic expectations. Any discipline in the arts industry takes time. I believe that a creative career is not a destination but an ongoing journey. Like any other business things change, can be unpredictable, yet it can also move quickly at a moments notice.
Learning to be open minded, flexible as well as prepared, will place you on a path to success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.debrasdancingdarlings.com
- Instagram: @debra_montalvo1
- Facebook: Debra Montalvo
- Linkedin: Debra Montalvo
Image Credits
TEDx talk- by James Swaim
The 1st Century Village Women- by John and Antoinette Place
Me as a Mathematician for Doritos Commercial- by Janimation
*All others by me!