We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Marco Infante. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Marco below.
Alright, Marco thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
Reflecting on my journey, I sometimes wonder if discovering my passion for the arts earlier would have accelerated my career. Perhaps I would have started auditioning professionally as a child or moved to Los Angeles sooner. However, I cherish my upbringing in Orlando and would not trade those experiences for anything.
The most essential skill an artist can possess is creativity and imagination. These qualities set you apart from others. As an artist, you must strive to be different. Your unique perspective and imaginative thinking are your greatest assets. Embrace your creativity, and let your mind run wild with images, sounds, and colors. When you tap into your creative side, anything is possible.
One of the biggest hurdles I have encountered is the competitive nature of the artistic community. I initially believed that everyone in this community would help one another, sharing opportunities and supporting each other. However, I have found that many artists are reluctant to extend a helping hand, fearing the loss of their own opportunities. This realization was disheartening, as I always see the good in people and the love in humanity. I remain hopeful that one day, a friend will recognize my talent and provide support.
Despite these challenges, I strive to be different. When I create my projects and films, I give opportunities to my friends—artists who have been patiently waiting for their chance. I always aim to maintain the integrity of my work, ensuring that the right people are cast for the roles. However, I believe in extending a helping hand and offering others a chance to prove themselves. This approach is rooted in my belief that we all need support in a career as demanding as this one.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
From a young age, my family home was always filled with music and dancing. I first ventured into the arts through dance, entertaining my family. As my skills and confidence grew, I eventually auditioned for my school’s talent show in the 6th grade and won the “Most Crowd Pleasing” award. This honor was a significant indication that I had the talent and skills to entertain audiences. The sensation of receiving a standing ovation from a crowd of 1,000 people at the age of 11 jolted every bone in my body. In that moment, I knew that entertaining the masses was my life’s calling.
Following this revelation, I shifted my focus entirely to the performing arts, leaving behind all sports and other hobbies. Since then, I have had the privilege of studying under phenomenal teachers. Jane Mueller, my high school drama teacher, instilled in me a deep love and passion for the arts. Jane Lickson, my university professor, taught me that being an artist in this world is a unique experience. Michael Richey gave me the confidence to believe in myself. Debra Hale showed me that my mind, voice, and body are powerful instruments in the arts. Finally, Burt Reynolds helped me transition my stage skills to the screen.
My journey in the performing arts has been shaped by the mentors who guided me, the experiences that enriched my perspective, and my unwavering commitment to creativity and imagination. While the competitive nature of the industry can be challenging, I remain dedicated to helping others and fostering a supportive artistic community.
I am the Artistic Director of “Artist’s Digital Lab,” which provides services to all artists—actors, singers, models, musicians, voice artists, and more. We specialize in headshots, film production, resume enhancements, demo reels, portfolios, and more. Essentially, we equip artists with all the essential tools they need to succeed in this business. I am also the owner of “Marquito Productions,” my film subdivision where we create indie feature films. We already have three films on Amazon Prime: “Circle of Death,” “Intrusion,” and “A Walk in the Park,” with a fourth, titled “Boyz for Life,” around the corner.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
At first glance, non-creatives often look at us “artists” and dismiss our careers as mere hobbies or trivial entertainment. While it is partly true that our work provides entertainment, it is also a serious profession. As artists, we must constantly create to avoid getting lost in the mix. This is not a 9-to-5 job; it is a 24-hour, 365 day commitment every year. To be an artist, you must be willing to be vulnerable, akin to standing naked on a hill for everyone to see. We must be open with our emotions, feelings, and thoughts. We are the translators of life to art, the tools through which the divine communicates with humanity. Without artists, there would be no art, and without art, the world would be a sad place.
Art helps people understand their culture, history, and the experiences of others in ways that other mediums cannot. It promotes communication between cultures and serves as a source of inspiration, reflection, and joy. Art embodies beauty and life, encapsulating the essence of our existence.
As creatives, we often do not receive enough credit for the demanding nature of our job. I have been on a diet since I was 16, constantly creating content, following trends, and attending auditions. We endure countless self-tapes and thousands of rejections before receiving one acceptance. We face criticism, are often put down, and treated like props—disposable and easily replaceable—all while working tirelessly. Being an artist requires a thick skin; it is not a profession for everyone.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My family, especially my parents, have been the driving force behind my dreams and aspirations. My father and mother both left Peru in the 1990s when the economy and political situation became unbearable, especially for their children, my sister and me. At the age of 7, my family and I left the country we were born in, leaving behind our family, friends, culture, and home—everything familiar—to seek a better life. We moved to the happiest place on earth, Orlando, Florida, right next to Mickey Mouse. In this new land, my parents had to learn a new way of living, find new jobs, make new friends, and adjust to a new culture. The sacrifices they made were immense.
When I reflect on all they sacrificed for me, I feel an overwhelming desire to give back to them. The best way I can honor their sacrifices is to succeed in this career and to make a life out of this crazy industry. Achieving this would not only fulfill my dreams but also validate all their efforts and sacrifices. Now, as an adult, I see the incredible strength and resilience my parents possessed. I understand the magnitude of what they left behind and the challenges they faced to provide a better life for us. Everything I am today is because of my parents. The lessons, morals, and ethics they taught me have shaped me into the person I am. I couldn’t have asked for more loving and supportive parents, and that is why my mission is to see all their hard work pay off. I want them to finally take a deep breath, relax, and know that their son made it. An Oscar on the shelf wouldn’t be too shabby either. One has to dream big, no?
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.MarcoInfante.com
- Instagram: @Marquito16
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marcoinfante/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/public-profile/settings?trk=d_flagship3_profile_self_view_public_profile
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/marcoinfante/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/marquito16
Image Credits
Photos: Artists Digital Lab