We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Liliana Rodriguez. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Liliana below.

Hi Liliana, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

My artistic journey began with a deep appreciation for the power of visual storytelling. I believe that art has the unique ability to transcend language and cultural barriers, making it an ideal medium for fostering dialogue and understanding. My previous projects have often centered around themes of resilience, cultural heritage, and social justice, aiming to reflect the voices and experiences of the communities I serve.

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on was a mural in the Northgate/GNNA community. This wasn’t just about beautifying a public space; it was about creating an educational tool and a source of pride for the local residents. Working with various stakeholders and community members, we designed a mural that highlighted the history and cultural contributions of underrepresented groups in the area. This project sparked important conversations about identity and inclusion.

This project was particularly meaningful to me because it pushed me to challenge myself on a new level. For the first time, I worked on a huge scale, transforming a parking lot wall into a vibrant piece of art. Two years later, this mural is still a topic of conversation. Moreover, it has inspired the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Councilmember Karina Talamantes to develop Sacramento’s very own “Taco Plaza” on Northgate Blvd. This exciting development promises to be a culinary and community hub, driving both economic growth and community engagement.

Being part of this project is much greater than ‘just’ creating art. It’s about building a community and bringing people together.

Liliana, 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?

In February 2017, after residing in Los Angeles for 15 years, I found myself at a crossroads when I was unexpectedly laid off from my job as a Product Development Manager at a fashion company. My time in Los Angeles had been marked by the tumultuous ups and downs of the fashion industry—quick turnovers, frequent relocations, and the constant search for new job opportunities and side hustles to stay afloat. This event marked the beginning of a challenging yet transformative journey that would ultimately shape my path as an artist.

Amidst the uncertainty and upheaval, I made the courageous decision to return to my hometown, seeking refuge and support from my family in Sacramento. It was a pivotal moment of self-reflection, where I confronted the daunting question of what I truly wanted to pursue in life.

In the months that followed, I immersed myself in the local art community, exploring different mediums and techniques to channel my creativity. It was during this time that I rediscovered my passion for art, particularly drawn to the mesmerizing allure of alcohol ink painting.

With determination and resilience, I honed my skills in this captivating medium, experimenting with various blending techniques and color palettes to create dynamic and evocative abstract faces. Each brushstroke became a testament to my perseverance and determination to overcome adversity.

As I delved deeper into my artistic journey, I found solace and catharsis in the act of painting. It became a form of self-expression, allowing me to channel my emotions and experiences onto the canvas. Through art, I discovered a newfound sense of purpose and fulfillment, transcending the confines of corporate life.

My brand is dedicated to harnessing the power of art to breathe life into spaces and create vibrant, inspiring environments. Whether it’s through striking indoor and outdoor murals, bespoke logos, commissioned paintings, or even designing wine labels, each project is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

I also specialize in body painting. It’s a passion that began during my time in Los Angeles, where I found myself dabbling in the world of high-profile events like the Maxim parties and Playboy events. The human body became my first canvas, and to this day, I still indulge in the art of body painting whenever the opportunity arises. It’s a unique aspect of my creative journey that adds an extra layer of excitement and diversity to my portfolio.

Products and Services-
Murals: My murals transform ordinary walls into extraordinary works of art, tailored to reflect the identity and values of businesses and community organizations. They not only beautify spaces but also tell powerful stories that resonate with viewers.

Bespoke Logos and Branding: I create logos that are more than just symbols; they encapsulate the essence of a brand, helping businesses stand out and connect with their audience on a deeper level.

Commissioned Paintings: For art enthusiasts and collectors, my commissioned pieces offer a personalized touch, bringing their visions to life with my distinctive style.

Event Body Painting: At events, my body painting serves as a live, interactive experience, turning guests into living pieces of art and adding an unforgettable flair to any occasion.

Wine Labels: I also design unique wine labels that capture the essence of the wine and its story, making each bottle a piece of art in itself.

Problems I Solve=
Revitalizing Spaces: Businesses seeking to revitalize their environments can rely on my murals and logos to create spaces that inspire and engage both employees and customers.

Community Upliftment: Through public art installations and collaborative projects, I help community organizations inspire and uplift their members, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

Artistic Expression: For individuals drawn to my style, I provide original paintings and prints that bring beauty and creativity into their homes and lives.

Dynamic Event Experiences: Event organizers looking to add a unique and interactive element to their gatherings can count on my body painting to create memorable experiences for their guests.

Inspiration and Resilience: My journey of resilience and personal growth is reflected in my artwork, resonating with individuals who see their own stories and aspirations mirrored in my pieces.

What truly sets my work apart is the combination of passion, diversity, and a deep connection to the communities I serve. Every piece I create is infused with the energy and spirit of the people and places that inspire me. I am most proud of the way my art brings people together, sparks conversations, and transforms spaces into places of joy and inspiration.

At the heart of it all, my goal is to make art accessible and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who encounters my work. Whether it’s a mural that tells a community’s story, a logo that embodies a brand’s essence, or a body painting that turns an event into an unforgettable experience, my art is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the power of transformation.

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

When I first started my journey, I had to unlearn the mentality of working like a typical 9-5 employee. Initially, I believed that to be productive, I needed to stay busy throughout the day, constantly completing tasks to feel like I was making progress. However, after a year of this, I realized I was burning out and not making significant strides in acquiring clients or projects.

It became clear that something had to change. I began reading books about working smarter, not harder, specifically those advocating for four-hour workdays. The key takeaways were all about efficiency, careful planning, and staying focused on tasks that truly move the needle. Shifting my mindset to accomplish meaningful work in a shorter time was incredibly challenging. I often felt guilty for taking breaks, having lunch with friends, or not working all day.

But over time, this approach became a habit. I learned to be kinder to myself and accept that not everything needs to be done in one day. There’s always tomorrow. Trusting the process and focusing on what truly matters have been crucial lessons in my journey.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Absolutely, there’s often a disconnect between how non-creatives perceive an artist’s life and the reality of it. When I tell people I’m an artist, I usually get the same response: “Oh, how’s that going?” or “Do you do it full-time?” These questions often imply skepticism about how I manage to make a living. This skepticism stems from the age-old myth of the “starving artist.”

What many non-creatives don’t realize is the vast array of opportunities available to artists today. Being a creative isn’t limited to just painting on a canvas. There are countless avenues to explore, such as body painting, makeup and special effects makeup, sculpture design, interior design, graphic arts, and art installations for places like hotels and hospitals. Additionally, teaching art classes both online and offline can be incredibly fulfilling and profitable.

In my journey, I’ve learned that you have to be innovative in finding and creating these opportunities. It’s about thinking outside the box and leveraging your unique skills in various fields. The idea that artists can only survive by selling traditional artworks is outdated. By diversifying my skills and exploring different creative ventures, I’ve discovered a world full of possibilities that go far beyond the canvas.

For anyone struggling to understand the life of a creative, I hope this provides some insight. There is so much more to being an artist than meets the eye, and with the right approach, it can be a rewarding and lucrative career.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.lrkreations.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lr_kreations/