We were lucky to catch up with Talia Benitez recently and have shared our conversation below.
Talia , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. The first dollar you earn is always exciting – it’s like the start of a new chapter and so we’d love to hear about the first time you sold or generated revenue from your creative work?
The first dollar I earned from my creative work was in 2018, and I’ll never forget it. At the time, I didn’t have a specific painting style—I was just experimenting, letting my imagination lead the way. I was really into painting these robot-like Buddhas. They were made up of rectangles and geometric shapes, almost like abstract spiritual figure.
One of my closest friends, who I’m still friends with to this day, saw one of these paintings and instantly connected with it. To my surprise, he wanted to buy it. I was completely overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude. I couldn’t believe someone actually wanted to own something I had created—it was surreal.
That moment lit a fire in me. It was the validation and motivation I didn’t even realize I needed. I’ll always be grateful for that sales, not just because it was the first, but because it reminded me that what I create can resonate with others.
Talia , 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?
Reflecting on the question, “How do you want to leave your mark on the world?” has always been something I’ve carried with me. For as long as I can remember, I’ve believed the world could always use more artists—more people unafraid to feel deeply, create boldly, and connect authentically. Art, in all its forms, has fascinated me. Whether it was the precise planning of an architect designing a home or the delicate hand of a baker frosting a wedding cake, I’ve always been drawn to the care, patience, and intention behind each act of creation.
From the moment I could hold a pencil, I was that kid who stayed late after school to perfect every project, no matter how small. I poured my heart into every detail. Still, for a long time, I struggled to see art as a viable path. I explored other careers, but nothing fulfilled that deep creative pull inside me.
Everything shifted after a difficult breakup. I turned to acrylic paint as a way to process my emotions and found healing in self-taught exploration. I discovered acrylic pouring through online resources, and from there, began to develop a style that felt instinctively mine. I started incorporating textured materials—tissue paper, concrete, dried flowers—creating pieces that invite people not just to look, but to feel. I want people to trace the canvas, to engage with the textures and intentions behind each piece. That sensory connection is everything to me.
Then came the pandemic. Like so many others, I was forced to pause and reflect. During that time, I started leaning into community more deeply. After COVID, I took a job at a local restaurant, and one day they asked if I’d be interested in coordinating events. I didn’t hesitate. That opportunity marked the beginning of my curating journey. I started with my own paint and sip events, then expanded into hosting pop-up shops for small businesses and open mics for emerging musical talent. My mission was to hold space for others to express themselves, especially those seeking community and connection through art.
In 2023, that passion grew into The Got Heart Variety Showcase—an inclusive space where artists of all kinds are celebrated. From there, events like heART ATTACK and heART & Aerial were born, blending visual art, music, and movement in ways that continue to amaze me. I’ve had the absolute honor of sharing space with so many incredible creatives—many of whom I now call my heART FAM. The support I’ve seen in this community is something I’ll never be able to fully put into words. I’ve cried real tears with artists after shows—tears of joy, disbelief, and overwhelming gratitude. Because I know what it’s like to doubt yourself. I know the courage it takes to show your work to the world and hope it’s received.
What sets me apart is that everything I do—whether it’s painting, curating, or building community—is rooted in love, intention, and authenticity. I’m most proud of the spaces I’ve built that not only celebrate creativity but help people feel seen, supported, and inspired. My brand is about freedom of expression, connection, and creating without fear. No matter where you are in your journey, you are welcome here.
This work isn’t just about art—it’s about reminding people they’re not alone, that their voice matters, and that there’s power in simply showing up as they are. That’s the heart of everything I do. That’s how I hope to leave my mark.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
One moment that really tested my resilience was when I first started taking my art career seriously and began seeking opportunities in my city. I had the chance to meet with a curator who was well-known for working with established residential buildings and events. Naturally, I was excited—but the meeting didn’t go how I had hoped. She barely looked at my portfolio before dismissing my style entirely. Instead, she began showing me other artists she felt I should try to emulate, suggesting I shift my work to be more like theirs.
It stung—but I’m incredibly grateful I stood firm in my intuition and didn’t take her advice. I knew deep down that my style—rooted in passion, emotion, and personal expression—was worth honoring. I kept creating from a place of truth, letting my technique be shaped by what felt right to me, not by what I thought would please others.
Looking back, I can’t imagine what my artwork would look like if I had compromised my vision to fit into someone else’s mold. That experience taught me early on the importance of trusting myself as an artist and staying true to my voice—because that’s what makes the work powerful and honest. It’s a reminder I carry with me always.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Of course, when someone views my work and wants to collect it, that’s a very special moment—because it means they’re connecting with something I’ve created, and that’s incredibly rewarding. But nothing beats the way I feel when I curate a showcase and see a room full of artists and supporters, all sharing energy, excitement, and love for the arts. It’s in those moments—the smiles of artists making their first sale, the sound of a crowd cheering for a performer, the tears of joy, and the words of appreciation—that I feel the most fulfilled. For many, my events have been their first opportunity to share their art publicly, and watching them flourish and continue their creative journeys is the most rewarding feeling of all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tysartshop.com
- Instagram: @tysart_
