We were lucky to catch up with Graciela Socorro recently and have shared our conversation below.

Graciela, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I was graduating from college, just starting my career as an engineer, and I thought I had everything figured out. I had the job, the routine, and the stability, but as time passed, that happiness I once felt began to fade by the monotony of a life that no longer felt fulfilling. Yet, there was a small comfort: a window in my office that overlooked a beautiful tree. In those quiet moments, it became my escape, a reminder of something alive and vibrant beyond the routine.

On weekends, my husband and I began taking photographs at the park, in our hometown Maracaibo, Venezuela. It was our little escape, a time to breathe and connect with something beyond work. But when Monday came, I would sit at my desk and find myself staring out the window, fixated on that same tree. I dreamed of being back at the park again, capturing moments in time. Those moments felt eternal to me. I’d get lost, completely absorbed, where there was only me and the subject.

Two years later, one of the pictures I had taken with my point-and-shoot camera at that same park we visited on the weekends, was selected for a prestigious art show at the Museo Contemporáneo del Zulia (MACZUL). That was the pivotal moment—the first time I truly felt the pull to explore art and photography more seriously. It was then that I realized my heart longed for something deeper, something creative. I wanted to learn more, to let art become my voice.

Graciela, 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 got into this business because I fell in love with photography during a time when I was searching for a deeper connection to the world around me. Then, I was invited to contribute a painting for an auction, and to my surprise, my piece became quite popular. That experience sparked a new passion, and I began exploring different mediums.

Over time, I’ve received many commissions from clients, which initially challenged me by pushing me outside my comfort zone. But in the end, those pieces turned out to be pretty cool, and some of them even inspired new series that I continue to explore and develop.

What sets me apart is my commitment to creating work that is not only meaningful to me but also deeply personal and impactful for my clients. Whether it’s through photography, painting, or mixed-media, I aim to deliver unique and authentic pieces that resonate on a deeper level.

I’m most proud of how my work has evolved over time and the connections I’ve made through it. I want potential clients and followers to know that my creative process is all about color, texture, exploration, and constantly striving to grow. Every piece I create is a reflection of my journey, and I’m excited to share that journey with others.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the freedom to create whatever is in my soul. As an artist, you get to follow your intuition and explore new ideas, techniques, and emotions. That sense of freedom is incredibly powerful and liberating. Of course, there will always be people who try to tell you what you should or shouldn’t do, but it’s important not to listen to them. Trust your own voice and stay true to your creative journey, because that’s where the magic happens.

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

I think I could’ve benefited from learning more about mental resilience earlier in my creative journey. Being a creative is full of ups and downs, and I wish I had resources or practices that could have helped me navigate the emotional rollercoaster from the start—especially when it comes to migrating, dealing with culture shock, and being away from family. Additionally, dealing with gallerists and fellow artists while keeping your ego in check can be tricky. It’s important to approach these relationships with professionalism and humility, and not take things personally, even when faced with rejection or differing opinions.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.gracielasocorro.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracielasocorro/
• Twitter: https://x.com/gracielasocorro
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/gracielasocorroart/
  https://www.instagram.com/light42studio/

Image Credits

Graciela Socorro’s portraits by Carlos Ocando