Today we’d like to introduce you to Eileen Figueroa.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
In 2015 I decided it was time to pursue one of my passions which it is painting. Having a regular 8+ hours job, I asked myself how I am going to pursue art while working on a regular job? “I started researching the Houston art community, looking possible studio locations and it did not take me too long with the help of an art coach and friends, to find the perfect place to start my art studio business. I was so excited, that I was painting day and night to meet the first exhibit at Spring Street Studios in May 2015…
Since then, I have been very successful in my art career. I can’t wait a few years from now until I retire from my federal government career to pursue my passion 100% plus!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
No, it has not been a smooth road. Some of the struggles that I face is having a regular 8 hr + job I face the challenges of meeting my art commitments and involvements. Also, time is very precious to me do to the fact that I do not do art full time. After work, find myself rushing to my art studio and start painting and working in different art events that I get myself involved in.
Also, I spend most of my free weekends in the studio creating art. My time is very limited and valuable. But all that said, it is all worth it! I will not have it any other way! I have been surrounded by the best art community and supporting friends that I make on this journey! I guess I call myself “lucky”! It is good to go through struggles and challenges they make you stronger!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Eileen Art Studio 135 – what should we know?
Painting has been a passion of mine since I was a child. The inspiration for my art comes from the color and music originating from my Caribbean heritage. My favorite subjects include ordinary people dancing in the streets and enjoying their traditional festivities, in addition to musical instruments, exotic tropical birds and farmers tending to their fields.
My artwork captures the most vivid and fond memories I have collected since childhood growing up in Puerto Rico. I want to share those experiences with viewers so they can enjoy the rich, diverse and vibrant culture that is unique to the Caribbean.
When I visit my homeland, I spend a lot of time in the streets observing everyday people as they celebrate life and their customs. I frequently capture those joyful moments in photographs and sketches which I use as references for my paintings. In my studio, I create paintings that express my observations and heightened imagination. I use a bold palette of acrylic paint in contrasting colors. My compositions include simplified forms and movement in order to convey the exact mood and atmosphere.
When visitors from the Caribbean community visit my studio they experience a visual dimension that is reminiscent of their birthplace. It is always personally satisfying to hear them exclaim, “You take me back to ‘my roots’ through your paintings. I feel that I am HOME.”
My desire as an artist is to share my dynamic cultural heritage and take the viewer of my paintings on an inspiring visual journey – to breathe life, joy, and peace in their lives. This is what set me apart from others.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Since I started this fascinating journey I have been so lucky to meet wonderful people in my path. First, I am very grateful that I met Renee Phillips, director-curator of Manhattan Arts International, New York, NY.
She is a mentor and coach for artists helping them achieve their fullest potential. She has helped me tremendously in my art career by giving me valuable advice and coaching me as an artist to do better and be better. Also, I am very grateful for friends and family members that are always a support and my number one fans!
Pricing:
- $250-$3500 USD
Contact Info:
- Address: 1824 Spring Street Studio 135 Houston, TX 77003
- Website: www.eileenartstudio135.com
- Phone: 281-216-1045
- Email: eileen@eileenartstudio135.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eileenartstudio135/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artisteileenfigueroa/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/EileenArtStudio
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eileenartstudio135/
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