Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Flores.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
While growing up in the suburbs of Houston, I started off taking photographs of friends who aspired to become models and then went on to photographing live bands. The feeling of being stuck in the suburbs and around people with limited viewpoints was so draining – I did not experience creative freedom until I decided to attend St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX. I like to think of St. Edward’s as the “Hogwarts of Texas.” The student body was composed of so much culture and so many perspectives; everyone was unique in their own way. The experience there was enough to be life-changing, and I grew to be very passionate about diversity in all aspects. The more comfortable I became in the environments I found myself in, the more inspired I had become.
Naturally, I am a very introverted person, but living in Austin forced me out of my shell and lit the fire within me. I soon became involved with two DIY magazines, touring musicians, helping friends with modeling portfolios, my university’s fashion organization, and working at non-profit museums. My new ability to multitask heavily kept me busy – but unfortunately to the point where I burned out. While I am grateful for the technical and creative experiences, I felt like I had come to a halt. I then turned to mediation and learning about the teachings from the book “Be Here Now” by Ram Dass to help me cope with my internal mindset. After graduating college, I decided to seek out positions within the fine art and museum realm. I wanted a change of pace and to continue learning about art in a historical context – but also work in a place that shared my values towards life. I landed a job as the Imaging Technician at The Menil Collection.
Now, after about two years of working here, I have become so inspired and have gained such a different outlook on life. I also came to realize that most of my network of friends and colleagues formed a web that spread all over the world. With the connections and inspiration that I was granted, I have been able to formulate new ideas and see my creativity in a new light. As someone who has gone through major creative blocks, I am so grateful for the experiences that have appeared. Upon moving back to Houston, I have worked with Mystic Stylez Productions, Private Eye Gallery, Majia Records, and 8 Palms by Brittney Anele. Through the artists that I am fortunate to call my own friends, I have been able to practice different forms of media and strive to continue seeking out my vision for all to see.
Please tell us about your art.
In terms of my own artwork, I like to make art for myself. I believe that when you start to make it for someone else, at times, you stray away from the first reason you decided to start in the first place. Photography is my preferred medium, but I also dabble in video work, graphic design, projections, and electronic music. Although I am in a bit of a work-for-hire mode right now and I have only been collaborating instead of working on my own ideas, the practice and observation has helped me figure out my own style. I have been collecting shots from photo shoots that I have done to create a distinct palette or “another vision” of what I believe to be my own personal artwork. Through this act of curating photographs from my collection, I am able to have control over what I want to put out and be represented as. I have always been a particular person and creating art is an important act that has allowed me to express my individualism. I hope to inspire others to feel comfortable creating their own “worlds” for everyone to see; everyone has a unique perspective that deserves to be seen!
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
One of the most important things that I have heard/learned is: You don’t have to have the most expensive equipment to excel at creativity. All you need is your mind and a few physical objects. Create out of anything, create out of nothing. Do not let anyone with “better equipment” tell you that you are not good enough. It is your knowledge and practice that will allow you to ace at whatever you choose.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
People can view my work via my website and Instagram. I tend to add in my video work and some drawings exclusively on Instagram as I am currently still in an updating process. If anyone would like to support me and my work, I would prefer to handle the matters over email.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.archivero.co
- Email: anthonyflores.tx@gmail.com
- Instagram: @human.maybe
Image Credit:
Personal photo: Nathan Kennard, Models: Rudy, Shaaheen, Teresa + Victoria, Sears + Jess, CD Tom, B. Ames, Styling + Creative Direction: Brittney Anele (8 Palms), Self, Representing: Mystic Stylez Productions, 8 Palms, Anthony Flores
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