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

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Since my youth, creativity has been an integral part of who I am. Painting and drawing were not merely pastimes but outlets for expression, albeit constrained by the demands of time. Throughout my college journey, balancing work, motherhood, and full-time studies, financial constraints limited my ability to curate my home in the desired aesthetic—a pursuit that held significant importance for me. In response to these limitations, I delved into DIY projects and embarked on painting numerous portraits that still hang in my home today. What started as a quest to curate a space that brought me joy unexpectedly rekindled a dormant passion for creation.

Fast forward to March 2020, when the world was thrust into the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic. Suddenly blessed with an abundance of time, I seized the opportunity to immerse myself in exploring my artistic craft. Experimentation became my mantra as I played with colors, various paints, mediums, and canvas sizes. The scope of my artistic endeavors expanded beyond my initial focus on animals and nature to encompass people, abstracts, and nude portraits.

Remarkably, I am entirely self-taught, having never undergone formal training. Despite this, I recognize the importance of continuous growth and pushing my artistic boundaries. In the age of technology, platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram have become invaluable resources. Through these channels, I’ve connected with fellow artists, explored courses, and tapped into the rich tapestry of knowledge available online.

Acknowledging the significance of seeking feedback and mentorship, I’ve also looked to my local community for opportunities to enrich my artistic journey. While my professional background lies in business, specifically seven years in the automotive industry, I find myself navigating and exploring an entirely new world in real-time.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey is the realization that every individual’s path in the art world is unique. Embracing the discomfort of the unknown has become a pivotal lesson, as I push myself beyond familiar boundaries. The largest takeaway from this journey is the necessity of immersing oneself fully in the art world—an immersion that has opened doors to more growth and development resources than I could have ever imagined.

Currently, I am pursuing my passion for art on a part-time basis. In this season of creativity, my focus has gravitated toward the exploration of female abstract nudes, with a deliberate emphasis on capturing the beauty and curves inherent in the female form. My artistic expression is characterized by a vibrant palette, as I intentionally employ a myriad of colors to craft bold and eye-catching statement pieces.

Each piece of my original artwork is available for purchase, and I also offer prints for select works. Additionally, I welcome commissioned pieces, as I believe in the power of tailoring art to meet the unique visions and desires of those who appreciate it.

While my current focus lies within the realm of female abstract nudes, I am averse to confining my abilities within a single theme. Actively seeking to broaden my artistic horizons, I am exploring various themes and subjects, allowing my creative journey to unfold organically. This commitment to exploration and versatility ensures that my art remains dynamic and continually evolving.

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

At the core of my creative journey is only one goal—to illuminate the beauty of the world as I perceive it. I strive to translate my unique perspective into art that not only captures the essence of my vision but also resonates deeply with viewers. Through my artistic works, I aspire to foster a connection that goes beyond the visual, creating an entire experience, reaching into the emotions and perceptions of those who encounter my creations.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One pivotal lesson I had to unlearn was the belief that success is solely defined by external validation and societal expectations. For a period of time, I placed excessive importance on meeting external standards and seeking validation from others, which unfortunately led to a larger problem, the development of imposter syndrome. This resulted in feelings of inadequacy, a sense of being underqualified, and constant comparisons with peers, ultimately hindering my progress.

Recognizing that comparison is indeed the enemy of success, I underwent a mindset shift and realized that genuine success and fulfillment come from within. I revisited my “why” and refocused on aligning my actions and goals with my own values and aspirations. Embracing this change in perspective, I began pouring more authenticity into my art, understanding that its resonance is intended for those it’s meant to connect with. I’ve learned that art is not meant for universal understanding, and I no longer create for validation but rather because it is a genuine passion.

I’ve become fiercely protective of this perspective shift, which has not only brought a profound sense of authenticity to my life but has also allowed me to measure success in terms of personal growth and fulfillment rather than relying on external benchmarks. This journey has enabled me to find joy and purpose in my creative endeavors beyond the confines of societal expectations.

Contact Info:

• Website: latinarenee.com
• Instagram: latina.renee
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/latinamoore