We were lucky to catch up with Juan Carlos Torres recently and have shared our conversation below.

Juan Carlos , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

My artistic career has been challenging but very rewarding. At the beginning of my career, it was difficult to fully focus on my creative process due to financial challenges and the risks that an artistic career might represent. However, I believed in myself more than anyone else and never doubted for a second that I wanted to be an artist. This helped me sustain myself while I built my artistic career. Over time, key milestones like building a strong personal brand and networking with other artists helped me gain visibility. Small and medium-sized projects allowed me to create a solid portfolio, which eventually led to larger opportunities.

Looking back, I believe I could have sped up the process by learning more about the business side of art early on—understanding how to promote my work, manage finances, and negotiate contracts from the start would have been essential for reaching full-time success sooner.

Juan Carlos , 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’m an artist based in Peru, and my journey into the creative world has been a mix of passion, dedication, and belief in the power of art to connect with others. From a young age, I knew that I wanted to pursue art, despite the uncertainties and risks involved. I combined my love for art with studies outside of the field, which ultimately gave me a broader perspective on how to manage my career and develop my personal brand.

The services I offer include custom artworks, exhibitions, and creative collaborations. My work focuses on delivering pieces that evoke emotion, inspire reflection, and often serve as a commentary on contemporary issues. What sets me apart is my ability to tailor my creations to the needs and desires of my clients, while still maintaining my own unique style and vision.

One of the things I’m most proud of is having built a sustainable career from my passion. It wasn’t an easy road, but every step taught me something valuable. I want potential clients and followers to know that when they engage with my art, they are not just purchasing a product; they are investing in a story, a piece of my soul, and something that has been crafted with intention and heart.

Ultimately, I strive to create art that resonates deeply with people, while continually evolving as an artist. My brand is about authenticity, emotional connection, and the belief that art can make a meaningful impact in people’s lives.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

In my view, one of the most important things society can do to support artists and creatives is to recognize the value of art in all its forms. This means not only appreciating the aesthetic or entertainment aspects, but also acknowledging the cultural, emotional, and even economic impact that art has on our lives. Education plays a key role here—promoting the arts from an early age and integrating creativity into schools will help foster a generation that values artistic expression.

Additionally, there needs to be more accessible platforms and opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their work. Grants, residencies, and funding opportunities are crucial for allowing creatives to pursue their passions without the constant fear of financial instability. Governments, private organizations, and communities can help by investing in cultural programs, creating spaces for artists to collaborate, and offering support in navigating the business side of their careers.

Finally, I believe that society should continue to encourage the cross-pollination of art with other fields—whether it’s technology, science, or social causes. When art is recognized as a vital part of the broader fabric of society, it leads to a more thriving and inclusive creative ecosystem.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Yes, there is definitely a mission that drives my creative journey. At the core, my goal is to create art that inspires connection, reflection, and dialogue. I want my work to evoke emotions, challenge perspectives, and offer a space for people to explore ideas that they might not encounter in their daily lives.

A big part of my mission is also to break down barriers—whether they are cultural, social, or even personal. I believe that art has the power to bridge gaps between different communities and individuals, and I’m committed to using my creative platform to foster understanding and empathy.

I’m also driven by the desire to leave a lasting impact. I want my art to resonate beyond just the moment it’s viewed, leaving an impression that lingers and invites people to think more deeply about themselves and the world around them. Ultimately, my mission is to create meaningful work that not only reflects my own journey but also connects with others on a profound level.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.juanctorres.com
• Instagram: @juancarlostorres01
• Facebook: juan carlos torres del aguila
• Twitter: @juanctorres01
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@juancarlostorres-artistapl816?si=bgJ2js2NPmgSx9vz@

Image Credits

Joey Clark