We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Melissa Govea a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Melissa, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?
As a full-time creative, my journey has been a tapestry of exploration and growth. From the early days of uncertainty to the eventual clarity of purpose, each step has woven a unique thread into my artistic narrative. I knew I wasn’t reaching my full potential being bound to multiple jobs but I kept making time for my creative endeavors and was stubborn in a sense to ever give that up. I decided to refine my skills by enrolling to LA Trade Tech and joined the sign painting and mural program. Once I received my certification It was entirely up to me to keep steady work. I would go door to door every single day securing work with small business owners pitching them lettering and design services. It was extremely difficult at first but I was determined, no matter the job small or big my portfolio and networking was steadily growing. Intentionally placing myself in mentorship’s and doing so much free work
(while maintaining my jobs) in order to learn from those who have done it before me. I’ve navigated easy and challenging situations learning the business along the way. Through the years and as my confidence grew I felt more willing to take on large scale projects and delve in the world of murals. Once I started, it was a wrap and I completely realized my calling and invested in myself to be able to be a full time creative. I was supported through my community to be part of meaningful murals, workshops and museum programming. It is anything but easy but I would take on this challenge everyday if it means I am fulfilling my goals and painting.
Melissa, 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?
I was always drawn to the lettering in my neighborhood of South Central LA from the mom and pops shops to the graffiti. Lettering was the first form of art I knew and practiced, and it only grew from there. Providing murals, and lettering for public spaces is the service I navigate. In the midst of gentrification to me providing these services keeps the community and vibrant culture very much present. I am proud of the community I come from and make that very much present in the styles, colors and execution of every project. Bright, bold and always hand painted.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Social media is a powerful tool if used correctly to help your creative career. I have used it as a digital portfolio of all my work, that has helped me only secure more clients and connect with other creatives. Practicing artists are free to determine how much or how little they share. You can represent yourself fully, when more then often our narratives are diluted or all together left out.
Another key factor is logging off social media and showing up. Community has always been present in aligning opportunities for me. I firmly believe if you show up for your friends, colleagues and peers it will always positively impact the overall support you receive.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
Something I always reiterate is that I quite my 9-5 job but now I work 24/7 and I think that’s pretty much the same for a multitude of artist. A regular work day would be about 10 plus hours and will fluctuate throughout the week. It’s not steady but it’s very gratifying if you love it. It’s still taboo to meet many full time artists but after the pandemic you saw a surge in supporting small businesses especially creatives, who offered solace through their crafts. It’s not a path many are prompted and supported to follow but it is very important to keep the human spirit strong.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://tochtlimoon.com/
- Instagram: Tochtlita
- Other: Smithsonian Interview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjTpQWwQYUE