We were lucky to catch up with Yvonne Hinojosa recently and have shared our conversation below.

Yvonne, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

As a young creative, I find immense happiness in the path I’ve chosen. The hustle, the uncertainty—it’s all part of the excitement for me. Sure, it’s not the most stable career choice, especially in today’s economy, but at 24, I’m embracing the journey of exploration. Being a creative opens up endless possibilities, and that’s what keeps me going.

Despite the occasional stress, I genuinely love what I do. Making connections, navigating adulthood at my own pace, and still managing to handle the essentials like rent, bills, and a bit of fun on the side—it’s fulfilling. Of course, there are moments when I wonder about the allure of a stable career path, but for now, I’m reveling in the adventure of being a creative. After all, life’s too short not to enjoy the ride.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Yvonne Hinojosa, a 24-year-old creative soul with a lifelong love affair with art.

When it came time for college, I knew I wanted to further explore my passion for art. Studying studio art provided me with a platform to delve into various mediums and techniques. From ceramics to jewelry making, painting to figurative drawing, and even photography, each class offered new insights and skills that I use in my everyday explorations.

During this time, I began apprenticing for a talented mural artist in San Diego, who remains my mentor to this day. Under her guidance, I not only honed my artistic skills but also gained invaluable insights into the business side of the industry. The freedom to express myself artistically, combined with the mentorship and traditions of art learned during a transformative study abroad experience in Italy, further fueled my passion.

Today, I find myself in a constant state of exploration, eagerly seeking what truly resonates with me. I am still exploring different mediums, and I’ve discovered great joy in taking on commissions for people, creating anything their hearts desire. The challenge of not only completing the work but exceeding my clients’ expectations is what drives me forward. While I may not have found my signature style yet, I firmly believe that being a great artist isn’t about having a defined style—it’s about passion, dedication, and the ability to create art that speaks to others. Whether it’s working in interior design or teaching art to children (which is what I currently do for work to pay the bills and such), I embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. My journey may still be unfolding, but one thing remains constant—my unwavering dedication to the creative process and the pursuit of artistic excellence.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

In my perspective, society’s support for artists, creatives, and the flourishing of a creative ecosystem should start with a fundamental shift in perception. Too often, art is undervalued, dismissed, or commodified solely based on its price tag. It’s not uncommon to hear comments like “I can do that, why is it so much?” and while such remarks may sometimes undermine the value of art, I don’t wish to discredit them entirely.

In fact, the ability to look at a piece and confidently proclaim, “I can do that,” is a testament to one’s connection with their creative side. It’s admirable and empowering. For those who feel inspired to create themselves, whether it’s replicating a piece they admire or embarking on their own artistic journey, I commend them. The act of engaging with art in this way adds a layer of significance to the final piece. When you invest your time and energy into creating something yourself, it becomes more than just a decoration; it becomes a reflection of your own creativity and personal journey, making it all the more meaningful for your home or space.

In today’s digital age, advancements like AI and NFTs have further blurred the lines, making creation seem effortless and instant. However, what’s missing in this narrative is the essence of art—the human touch, the emotion, the storytelling. As the legendary artist Vincent van Gogh once said, “I am seeking, I am striving, I am in it with all my heart.” Art is not just about the final product; it’s about the journey, the passion, the soul poured into each stroke.

To best support artists and foster a thriving creative ecosystem, society must rekindle its appreciation for the authentic, the meaningful, and the heartfelt. It’s about recognizing the value of art beyond its monetary worth, but rather in its ability to evoke emotion, provoke thought, and inspire change. It’s about celebrating the artists who pour their heart and soul into their craft, whose work speaks volumes without uttering a word.

Moreover, investing in arts education and providing accessible opportunities for artists to showcase their work and connect with audiences can play a pivotal role. By nurturing creativity and fostering a culture of appreciation, we not only uplift individual artists but also enrich our collective human experience. As Pablo Picasso famously remarked, “The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.” Let us embrace the transformative power of art and support those who dedicate their lives to enriching our world through creativity.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

For non-creatives, one of the biggest struggles to understand about the journey of a creative individual is often centered around the aspect of financial stability and career viability. There seems to be a prevalent misconception, particularly among older generations, that pursuing a career in the arts is synonymous with financial struggle or mere hobbyism. However, the reality is far from that narrow perception.

As a creative, I’ve witnessed firsthand the diverse avenues through which one can monetize their talents and skills. From commissioned artwork and freelance projects to collaborations with brands and businesses, there are countless opportunities to turn passion into profit. However, this path requires dedication, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit—traits that may not always align with traditional career trajectories.

To those who may question the viability of a creative career, I offer a reminder: while you may be excelling in your respective fields, let’s not forget the timeless adage, “Not all that glitters is gold.” Creatives bring a unique perspective and ingenuity to the table, enriching industries and pushing boundaries in ways that defy conventional norms. So, while the path may be unconventional and the journey may be riddled with uncertainties, the rewards of pursuing one’s passion and leaving a lasting impact on the world are truly priceless.

In essence, the journey of a creative is not merely about surviving but thriving, and it’s high time that non-creatives recognize the immense value that we bring to the table—not just in terms of artistic expression but also in driving innovation, fostering cultural enrichment, and shaping the very fabric of society.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yvhstudios/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/yvohino