Today we’d like to introduce you to Celeste Sarabia.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I’m from a small border town in Anthony, New Mexico. I grew up in a family of six. Two wonderful parents, one brother (the eldest), and two sisters. My mother was a teacher throughout my whole life, and my father was a self-employed professional carpenter. We grew up with lots of creativity in the house. My father was always sketching, whether it be house plans, superhero comics, or our faces; and always building. He built more than half of our home and even made a whole playground with a seesaw, swing set, and monkey bars. My mom was always coming up with crafts for us to do. She would occasionally draw us, sing songs, and play music. They both were/are so talented. Growing up with extremely creative and energetic parents, we all naturally picked up on that creative energy. My brother went to school for video game design and now focuses on making comic books. My older and younger sisters went to school for theatre. We inspire one another and thats how I came to be an artist. I always aspired to be like my dad and brother, always copying their drawings, always trying to better myself.
It wasn’t until high school when I picked up my first paintbrush. My art teacher was amazed at what I could do and encouraged me to continue painting. I listened to his advice and followed my passion. I moved to Austin, TX right out of high school and ended up getting a BFA in Studio Art with a concentration in Painting from Texas State University in San Marcos, TX.
Please tell us about your art.
I’m a contemporary portrait painter. I combine modern abstract painting with traditional painting. My paintings capture personality. As a person who’s always been very sensitive to peoples’ energies, I use paint to describe my subjects’ interior selves, the things that are difficult to say with words. The backgrounds describe the subject’s identity by selecting colors that specifically represent that person’s aura. I then follow it by adding a portrait that best expresses who they are. By painting my subjects this way, I am able to show my viewers there is more than meets the eye.
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?
I know this is something most people don’t want to hear, but I feel it’s important and necessary to have a side job. I always encourage my fellow artists to continue to do what they are passionate about. Never give up and keep working hard, but to be able to live comfortably and without worry, a side job is important when you’re just starting out.
Every cent earned, save it and put it away in a separate checkings and/or savings account. Keep receipts for records/tax purposes and make sure all the money spent is documented. It will help calculate future costs in the long run.
I feel, above all else, having people in your life who support what you do and want to see you succeed is what makes you successful. Surround yourself with good and hard working people. You inspire one another this way.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
People can find my work on my Instagram @celeste.sarabia I provide an in-depth look at my work and painting process.
I also have a website – celestesarabia.com. I accept commissions! I would love to paint something for you.
If you want to see my work in person, Mexic-Arte Museum in Austin, TX, has one of my paintings in their permanent collection, and Valentina’s Tex-Mex, also in Austin, TX, has a couple of my paintings for their personal collection. I always announce where my next show or viewing is going to be, so keep a lookout on both my Instagram and website.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.celestesarabia.com
- Email: celestesarabia30@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celeste.sarabia/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/CelestePaints
Image Credit:
Celeste Sarabia
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