We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Paulina Ho. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Paulina below.
Paulina, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
The biggest risk I’ve taken, hands down, was moving from New York City (after living there 13 years) to a small, remote, less known town in New Mexico with no connections. I was confused and scared to when this opportunity sprang up, but I couldn’t ignore my instincts to go through with this sudden and unexpected move. On the day of receiving my future lease, a local NY gig mentioned that I might lose their $20k project if I relocated. As corny as it sounds, I “followed my heart” and moved anyway. The first winter was extremely rough grieving alone, “starting over”, and being in an unknown work space exploring personal art. Although NOT EASY, it’s been also been the most rewarding gamble I’ve taken.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’ve been dabbling in some form of art since being young and just haven’t quit yet. It evolved from drawing Lion King to being a bored and depressed teenager messing with Adobe Photoshop 7. Nowadays, I have my own professional practice of freelance design, branding, packaging, lettering, illustration, murals, animation, and am also exploring my own personal art through painting and ceramics.
I like to think I’m good at figuring out what clients need and can execute a unique and practical vision that exceed their expectations. Over time, I’ve been quite lucky to work with innovative and kind people who trust me and also help push the work.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
For individuals interested in supporting artists they like, invest in their work.
For artists, build up pricing gradually, be open to negotiation and exceptions, but try everything possible to not lower your self-worth. It also helps retain the value of other artists.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
When people share a feeling related to the work. Whether it sparks joy or somberness, there’s something magical when others share a common thread viewing the same image.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://paulinaho.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/paulinapizza
- Other: http://paulina.pizza
Image Credits
Alexandra Cancro