We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Gina Herrera a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Gina, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

Since my childhood, I’ve nutured a deep desire to embark on a career in the realm of art, although my journey to realizing this dream has been far from straightforward. My odyssey commenced at the tender age of 16, shortly after high school graduation, when I made the pivotal decision to pursue fashion design. I chose this avenue with the belief that it offered a means to engage in artistic expression while also providing a stable source of income. Launching a small fashion design venture, I persevered for four years, only to be disheartened by individuals who failed to honor their financial commitments. At the age of 22, I decided to take a detour and joined the military reserves, a choice that led me to serve during Operation Enduring Freedom. It was during this period of service that I began to reflect deeply on my true calling and contemplated a transition into the world of professional artistry.
Upon my return from Iraq, I embarked on a new trajectory by pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Arts, thus marking the initiation of my professional journey as an artist. For the past decade, I have wholeheartedly dedicated myself to the pursuit of art as my chosen vocation, nurturing my creative spirit and honing my craft.

Gina, 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?

The essence of an artist has been ingrained in me since the very moment I entered this world. Despite being inherently creative, I devoted 25 years of my life to military service. My heritage, stemming from a blend of Tesuque Pueblo and Costa Rican roots, holds profound significance in shaping my beliefs and worldview. Spirituality is a cornerstone of my existence, and I firmly believe that my journey is guided by the benevolent presence of my father, watching over me from heaven. For nearly two decades, I’ve dedicated myself to the realm of education, serving as a high school teacher for almost 20 years and concurrently holding a position as a professor at the local college for the past 7 years. My character is defined by unwavering determination, persistence, laser-like focus, and resilience. I’ve always set my sights on goals and pursued them relentlessly, refusing to relent until they have been attained.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My art is fueled by a deep commitment to environmental consciousness and a profound love for our planet. I am passionately devoted to preserving this precious Earth and safeguarding the innocent creatures that inhabit it, whose habitats are imperiled by rampant development and the heedless actions of humanity. It pains me to witness species on the brink of extinction and animals hunted for misguided purposes beyond their control. My aspiration is to amass the necessary financial resources to establish an art foundation that will serve as the repository of my artistic legacy, alongside a vibrant art residency program. An integral facet of this vision involves the creation of an animal sanctuary, where the care and well-being of these remarkable creatures will be at the forefront. Artists participating in the residency will actively contribute to the nurturing and support of all the animals that find refuge and adoption within this sanctuary, fostering a harmonious connection between art and the environment.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Embracing the freedom to tap into my innermost self and craft something born from the depths of my soul is a paramount source of satisfaction. I relish the opportunity to take discarded items and, through the alchemy of creativity, transform them into pieces that captivate and stir the imagination.

Observing how individuals engage with my creations is a perennial fascination for me. Their interactions encompass a multifaceted exploration of my work, whether it be the materials I’ve chosen or the intricacies I’ve woven into my sculptures. This engagement adds layers of meaning and depth to the artistic experience.

Through my art, I find a powerful platform to address pressing contemporary issues, such as climate change and environmental awareness. It allows me to channel my creative energy into endeavors that resonate with the challenges we face today, lending a voice to these vital concerns.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ginaherrera.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ginaherreraart/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ginaherreraart