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

MESBELLE, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you share an important lesson you learned in a prior job that’s helped you in your career afterwards?

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned as both an artist and entrepreneur is that you have to be proactive in building yourself, especially your brand. While there’s a lot of emphasis on living in the moment, what truly shapes your future is the consistent work and focus you put in today.

Being a creative entrepreneur isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. There will be days when you don’t feel inspired, or moments when things don’t sell, and self-doubt creeps in. But that’s when you need to push harder. If you want success badly enough, you have to be willing to block out distractions that don’t add value. The key is to become valuable yourself, when people start recognizing that, you become the brand.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

By the time I was seven, I entered the world of performing arts and modeling, which I continued until I was 10. After stepping away from the entertainment industry, I found myself gravitating toward fine arts at 15. I started by painting on clothes and selling them, eventually launching an online business while still in high school. By the time I turned 18, I had already graduated with both my diploma and an associate dual-credit degree in liberal arts and design.

Coming from the south of Dallas, I didn’t believe I could sell my art or become an artist due to where I grew up. But something inside me pushed me to take a leap. I researched networking events and art organizations, eventually spending $140 on a ticket to an exclusive art event in Dallas. Meeting and surrounding myself with people who encouraged me to pursue my passion was a turning point, and I have no regrets.

Today, I’m the founder and principal of Mesbelle + Partners, an independent management and studio specializing in creating unique spaces, concepts, and experiences. We offer new construction, remodeling, and decorative painting, as well as fine arts and hospitality concepts. One of our projects is a pop-up gallery, sponsored by the Deep Ellum Foundation, that showcases contemporary-urban art and performances at 2820 Main Street in the heart of Dallas’ Deep Ellum district. Additionally, we provide hospitality services through Fusion, covering events, catering, and talent.

One of the things I want my audience to know about my brand is that it’s built on standards and morals. Every executive, staff, and team member of Mesbelle knows exactly what is expected of them. While I’m a very giving person, I also hold people accountable. Success is something you earn, not something that’s handed to you, and I make that clear to everyone I work with. When you give something too easily, it’s not appreciated in the same way. I focus on building character and confidence within my team, making sure they feel important, while also maintaining an environment of respect. That’s why I follow and live by the principles of ‘Peace, Love, Unity, Respect, and Roots.

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

In my view, the best way society can support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem is by not trying to make us, especially people of diversity, fit into one box. As a Latina creative director, I embrace my roots and my environment, but I feel that the Dallas art scene needs more authenticity and quality. I believe having to try to shape people into making them paint a certain thing or focus on only one thing because of how we look or what they think we can only handle. We need to focus on the real, important things in life.

There’s so much hidden talent in Dallas, yet many artists don’t get the opportunities they deserve because it’s more about who you know than the work you do. I’m determined to change that. While I might be seen as a ‘baby shark’ now, I’m making it my mission to create a lasting impact on the Dallas art scene. In the upcoming years, I will be making a difference in every corner, room, and space I enter.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

One of my favorite authors is Robert Greene, I’ve read all of his books from
the 48 Laws Of Power to Mastery.

I enjoy reading and writing, and one of the things that I believe will you keep your mind straight is when you are always developing in new knowledge and learning to be patient with yourself.

He has definitely impacted my entrepreneurial thinking and psychology in mastering in what you are passionate about

Contact Info:

• Website: https://hoo.be/iammesbelle
• Instagram: iammesbelle
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabellamireles?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Other: mesbellemedia@gmail.com

Image Credits

Labyron Thomas Media
Deep Ellum Foundation