Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Gracie Ruiz. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Gracie, 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?

Being an artist was never a decision for me. It is who I am. It is embedded in my DNA. I am a born artist. My perspective of the world and it’s species has always been divergent. I find beauty in the rarest of places even in the wrongest of times.

A memory of being consciously aware of my creativity, was when I was in art class in elementary school. The assignment was to paint the landscape in front of us. Our art teacher sat the classroom outside. We were facing the school yard, the metal gated fence and the houses that surrounded the school. She provided us with paint brushes, paint and set up our canvas on easels. Sitting on my stool I was anxiously awaiting for it to be lunch time to be with my friends.

But that eagerness subsided when i picked up the damp thin brush and dipped it into the the richest of purple paint and begun swiping at my canvas. Time stopped. I was sure of it. It was just me, the canvas and nature. Nothing could interrupt us, we were all connected and I knew from then that an artist is wasn’t just a part of me. It is me.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Gracie. I am an artist, filmmaker, photographer, writer and activist. I started painting at a very young age which lead to acting, singing, filmmaking etc. You get the drift haha. I enjoy expressing my views on a canvas, lens or using my words. I am always able to adapt and explore new creative fields in which i can mentally and spiritually grow and apply my knowledge. I call myself an eclectic artist because I dabble in everything.

This past year, I have been in touch with my activist role as our community is crumbling. I have used my voice and my talent to capture some of the highlights of this community that show strength and harmony. Whether it be LGBTQIA+ rights, to trying to decriminalize Sex Work, or the overturn Roe vs. Wade. Our voice makes a difference no matter the numbers. I believe we can make a change.

I believe beauty is subjective which allows me to work with such amazing and talented creators. Expressing myself freely with no restraints is why i love doing what I do. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the future and everyone I get to work with.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Definitely. I wish I would’ve known that I wasn’t alone. Some of the obstacles i’ve surpassed have been similar to my mentors and muses. There is a community out there that is ready to support you. This industry is very competitive and sometimes it can be difficult to navigate those negative feelings but just know:

There is success for everyone. YOU will be successful and make a change.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Reciprocation. When someone tells me that my piece moved them or they’ve found solace in a poem or story it makes my heart full. Being able to genuinely share a little piece of myself and have someone not judge you but relate to you is rewarding.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: greycmedia
• Twitter: mgskitty
• Youtube: greycmedia

Image Credits
@goingbovine @themisstoto @persephonevonlips