Today we’d like to introduce you to Loida Wexler.
Loida, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I was 9 when my parents moved from the Philippines to US. My father was an Engineer and my mom was a homemaker. I learned from them that through hard work and perseverance, dreams really come true. They certainly did it!
Went to St. Thomas University to get my masters in international business and worked Corporate America for about 20 years but I was miserable. In my heart I knew I should be elsewhere.
Having taken a lot of art classes, some at college level, I knew I was decent. But I did not want to be a starving artist.
Finally last year I turned professional. Since then I’ve completed 30 commissioned paintings and have done various Exhibits. I’ve never been happier. I found my true calling.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I was inspired by works of Van Gogh and other masters. I saw how the “breathed life” into their paintings. No longer is it an inanimate object. I want to do the same.
I’ve been specializing in Pet Portraits because the demand is there. To quote a client, “lots of people do pet portraits but you’re the best”. I work hard to capture their personality through the eyes.
I also do landscapes, abstracts, celebrity art, still life’s, florals and contemporary. I get asked a lot, “is this one person?” (Work). I want to challenge myself to constantly improve and learn new techniques.
People say I make “happy” paintings. My use of vibrant colors and lighting elevates the moods. That would be an honor to make others happy. I certainly do with the pet portraits. Some have cried after receiving their pet portraits
Artists rarely, if ever pursue art for the money. Nonetheless, we all have bills and responsibilities and many aspiring artists are discouraged from pursuing art due to financial reasons. Any advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective artists?
My path was to first get some real money through a real job. My parents did not want me to starve and they encouraged a more practical (business) degree.
Have a mentor or a backer. In my case, my husband encouraged me to be the artist while he did the corporate job. I’m very lucky.
Sell sell sell. Price them Low if necessary to get your name out there. Some artists fall too much in love with their pieces
Save receipts, find grants, recycle canvasses, look for discounts n clearance supplies – everything helps.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Urban Eats Restaurant – Washington Avenue (near Studemont) – My first Solo Exhibit – 60 pieces hanging there
Adam and Madam Bistro and Gallery – Midway – Old Town Spring – 7 pieces
From the Heart Gallery – Galveston
AG Antiques (Loida’s Treasures) – 313 West 19th Street – Houston 77008 – The Heights
Contact Info:
- Address: Loida’s Treasures
@ AG Antiques
313 West 19th Street
Houston TX. 77008
The Heights - Website: Www.loidawexlerart.com
- Phone: 832-620-4029
- Email: loida.wexler@gmail.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/loidastreasures
- Facebook: Facebook.com/Loida’s Treasures
Image Credit:
Loida wexler
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