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

Mario, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

I think risks are a part of being an artist. While working several jobs in NY, one in which I was the Weekend Program Coordinator, I got offered an opportunity for an artist residency in another state. I had a decision to make, stay at my job or take a leap by going to this artist residency that paid no money but may lead to better opportunities for my career. I chose the artist residency and quit my job. I had no income and no guarantee of any money but I firmly believed in myself as an artist and in God that everything would be ok. It was the right decision.

Mario, 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?

I am an artist who is primarily known as a painter. I believe deeply in recognizing and facing hard truths when it comes to history, particularly American history, in my work. I am very much interested in bringing the viewer into the picture plane of my paintings. I want them to feel some connection to what I have made and hopefully a new understanding when it comes to the subject of the piece.

I have spent most of my life making art, which started when I was a child. Growing up with a parent who is also an artist made the concept of becoming one an easy reality. Everything was right there in front of me.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Give artist money, time and space to create.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I get to do what I love everyday.

Contact Info:

• Website: Mariomoorestudio.com
• Instagram: @mariomooreart

Image Credits
Photographer for portrait of me is by Danielle Eliska