We recently connected with Edward Acosta and have shared our conversation below.

Edward, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Throughout my career as a visual artist, I have had the privilege of working on numerous impactful projects. Among these, I’ve had the opportunity to showcase my original works in multi-million dollar real estate in New York City and collaborate with major fashion and luxury brands on art installations for product activations. However, the project that holds the deepest personal significance for me is my latest body of work.

In 2020, during the height of the global pandemic, when the world came to a standstill, my artistic practice, which had been rapidly growing with many opportunities in New York City, faced an abrupt pause. This unexpected slowdown led my family and I to relocate from Westchester to Long Island. This move not only allowed me to establish a dedicated studio for my full-time art practice but also provided me with valuable time for reflection. It offered me a chance to focus on the present and envision the future.

As a result, my new body of work has become the most personal and meaningful of my career. It reflects profound life experiences and has garnered recognition in several museums. Notably, the Long Island Museum of Art, a Smithsonian Affiliate, acquired the very first painting from this series. This new chapter in my work represents both a personal and professional milestone that I am incredibly proud of.

Edward, 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?

I am a New York-based visual artist known for my distinct style and technique. My work is characterized by an unwavering commitment to precision in line work and a vibrant use of color. I’m driven by a passion for bold design, blending elements of pop art, street art, graffiti, and abstract expressionism into a unique visual signature. This fusion not only defines my artistic voice but also ensures that my work leaves a lasting impact on art galleries and museums.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

One of the most significant pivots in my career occurred when I relocated to Long Island. My previous work was deeply influenced by New York City’s vibrant streets and my background in graffiti, resulting in a dynamic, pop art style. Exhibiting in the Lower East Side, a historic hub for artists like Andy Warhol and Basquiat, further shaped my work.
However, moving to Long Island introduced a profound shift. The fast-paced city environment, which had once fueled my creativity, was replaced by the island’s tranquil surroundings. Initially, I struggled to find inspiration in this new, serene setting. Yet, as I adapted to the calm and daily access to the beach, I discovered a new source of inspiration. My work evolved to reflect this serene environment, becoming more personal and unique. This transition not only revitalized my creative process but also deepened my connection to my art.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Staying curious and continually seeking new resources is crucial for shaping my entrepreneurial mindset. Recently, I’ve been deeply inspired by books like Art/Work by Heather Darcy Bhandari and Jonathan Melber, How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci by Michael J. Gelb, and The Story of Painting by Ross King. These books, among many others, have profoundly influenced my approach and philosophy. I’m always on the lookout for new insights to further enhance my thinking and creative strategy.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.edwardacosta.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eacostastudio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eacostastudio

Image Credits

All photos taken by Edward Acosta