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

Loida, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

As a child in a house full of people (I came from a huge family), I always preferred to retreat to somewhere quiet and doodle/contemplate. The constant chatter from family members was not appealing. Lol. I got myself in a lot of trouble for that. From that small start, an interest in creative arts was burgeoning. I was fortunate to have had some detectable talent. Each school project that was recognized – Art scholastic awards to teachers offering to pay money for my work – made me want to continue.

Unfortunately when it came time to choose a career I was counseled by my parents to pick a more pragmatic curriculum. They just did not want me to be a starving artist.

So, I followed business. I went to college and completed my undergrad in Business Administration in International Studies and my Masters in International Business from St Thomas University in Houston TX. I spent many years in corporate America. One day, I got burned out.

I was always doing my art as a hobby all this time. My husband encouraged me to retire from corporate life and pursue my first love. At this time, I also felt my artistic style has blossomed and could finally be at a professional level. I have not looked back since

I have painted several portraits, people, celebrity, pets, wildlife, fantasy, abstract, botanicals, florals, landscapes…I’ve tackled them all. I want to explore and get deeper into my style so I always challenge myself.

I use a lot of vibrant colors. I like the intensity of colors that evoke a happy feel. I don’t think I’ll ever be a minimalist as a painter. It’s just not me.

The hardest part as an artist is defining your own characteristics and having the courage to go for it. Not everyone can be pleased. Staying true to yourself is the best and only option.

Loida, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My jobs in corporate were pretty challenging. I did international logistics for Halliburton, Lyondell Chemical, Mitsubishi Specialty Chemicals – mostly oil and gas industries. This prepared me to be on time, to deliver as promised, to have formal negotiations and to communicate better with my clients now. A lot of artists don’t have the corporate experience and it shows with little discipline for meeting and deadlines. My clients have appreciated that I can meet even the tightest deadlines or they are kept informed of the project at every stage.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect to me is seeing that I can bring joy through my artwork. I didn’t set out to be a pet portrait artist but I have done over 150 commissioned pet portraits. The clients have told me I captured the personality of their pets in my work. The same goes for people portraits.

When I get a commission, it is mostly as a gift. When they are received, the overwhelming response have been fantastic. Some are tearful, some overjoyed at the gift that means something special to them. That makes me happy. The idea that I can bring positive feelings of happiness makes me elated.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I was approached by some restaurant owners to paint a mural. At this stage, I had already painted several murals around town in restaurants or bars. I was happy to talk to them as it was a very prominent art space and can be seen by everyone.

I was too excited so I went ahead and did a sketch of the concept for free to illustrate that I am capable of the work. The unfortunate thing is that they kept changing their minds on the concept and the vision. They must have changed their minds over five times each time asking for full scale drawings IN COLOR with several changes in between – ALL for free. I spent months doing pro bono work. I asked for a meeting and they refused to even compensate me for the Art supplies and time for the scrapped visions. I felt very much taken advantaged of. I came out of the meeting once and overheard the very critical lady owner making fun of me. I had to find the courage to decline the job. They did not respect my work. Years later, their project never got completed.

It took me weeks to not feel bad about this unfortunate situation but soon after I was approached for another mural that is being celebrated all over Houston.

You have to stand up for yourself as an artist. Many people will try to belittle your work because they are too cheap to pay your worth. You must get back up on that horse and keep riding.

This is the only true life for me. I feel the inner fire glow that I have found my true calling.

Contact Info:

• Website: Loidawexlerart.com
• Instagram: Loidastreasures
• Facebook: Loida Wexler Art
• Youtube: Loida Wexler Art